As virtual services and AI-enabled tools continue to reshape the mental health landscape, understanding how people across Canada experience and perceive these innovations has never been more important. To deepen this understanding, the Commission partnered with Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC) to leverage real-time insights from its national polling initiative. The result is a timely snapshot of real-world use, perceptions, and emerging opportunities in e-mental health and AI. The findings are intended to guide policy development and integration of digital and AI-enabled technologies across the mental health system to promote well-being.

Key findings include the following:

1. Use of AI and virtual mental health services is already widespread in Canada, but public trust remains low, especially with AI.
2. The majority of those who use AI or virtual mental health services report positive outcomes, finding them effective in supporting their mental health.
3. Men, youth, and equity-deserving groups show higher engagement with AI and virtual mental health services.
4. People living in Canada indicate interest in hybrid models that combine human and digital mental health supports.
5. Virtual mental health and AI tools offer convenience and accessibility, but uncertainty remains about their ability to meet more complex mental health needs.