Statement on the Federal Budget 2025

16 November 2025

Joshua acknowledges the release of Budget 2025 and welcomes the government’s continued recognition of the importance of public health, community supports, and social programs. However, deep concern must be expressed that this budget fails to meaningfully address the escalating mental health crisis impacting youth and communities across Canada, and does not respond to the urgent and evidence-based recommendations submitted by the OJB through the federal pre-budget consultation process.

Canada’s youth remain at a tipping point. Rates of anxiety, depression, suicide attempts, and eating disorders continue to rise, especially among LGBTQ youth, Indigenous youth, and marginalized communities. Yet Budget 2025 contains no dedicated investments in youth mental health, no funding commitment for the Canada Mental Health Transfer, and no support for the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Line, despite its life-saving impact since launching in 2023.

Budget 2025 lacks action on supporting Canadians' mental health, and puts further into question, following the removal of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions portfolio, their commitment to Canadians on protecting and providing support on these key issues affecting everyone.

People across Canada cannot wait another year for the support they need.

I urge the Government of Canada to:

Fulfill its promise and implement the Canada Mental Health Transfer without delay to strengthen early intervention and community-based supports.
Fund and fully implement a National Suicide Prevention Strategy.
Ensure the long-term sustainability and expansion of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Line.
Recognize and fund action on the growing eating disorders crisis among youth.

Joshua remains committed to working collaboratively with all levels of government to advocate for equitable, accessible, culturally informed, and life-saving mental health care for all.

###