As Canada-U.S. trade tensions escalate and the cost of living continues to rise, new data reveals nearly half of Canadians are experiencing heightened anxiety, with tariffs quickly emerging as one of the top drivers.
According to this new data, published by GreenShield and Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC):
- In 2024 there was a declining trend in the number of Canadians reporting negative mental health impacts due to economic conditions; however, the start of 2025 marked a sharp spike, with:
- 42% now reporting the economic downturn is negatively affecting their mental health, and
- 39% worrying about the possibility of not being able to pay their bills.
- Nearly 50% of Canadians reported increased anxiety in the past month, with concerns highest among lower-income households and women.
- Almost 40% of Canadians now cite political unpredictability and tensions with the U.S. as a source of heightened anxiety – second only to concerns over the rising cost of living (52%).
- Anxiety is highest in Ontario and British Columbia.