We Are Happy + Respected
UNICEF Canada defines this domain of wellbeing as feeling satisfied with life, valued and respected, confident, balanced across life’s dimensions, purposeful, and able to cope with stress. It also recognizes times when youth may feel sadness or hopelessness. Our research asks: How do young people themselves define personal wellbeing and digital wellbeing? And how happy are they with the role and impact of digital technology on their overall sense of wellbeing?
Watch Digital Portraits
Hear directly from Canadian Gen Z youth in these short videos. Filmed 2024–2025.
to choose from 28 videos
Research Snapshot
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Resources
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Digital Well-being: Tech Use & Adolescent Mental Health
Statistics Canada
Canadian data linking social, messaging, and gaming use with mental health, sleep, and cybervictimization.
Read the Report
Young Canadians in a Wireless World: Life Online
MediaSmarts
Canada’s flagship study on youth & tech—wellbeing, unplugging, and experiences online.
Read the Report
Digital Well-Being of Canadian Families
MediaSmarts
What supports healthy family tech habits and balance.
Read the Report
Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World — Index
Internet Matters
Annual index tracking how online experiences shape wellbeing.
See Report
Teens, Social Media & Mental Health (2025)
Pew Research Center
Fresh data on teen experiences and perceived impacts of social media.
Read Now
APA Health Advisory: Social Media in Adolescence
American Psychological Association
Evidence-informed recommendations to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
Download PDF
Exposure to Harmful Online Content (Canada)
Statistics Canada
Who encounters harmful content and how often.
See Findings
How’s Life in the Digital Age
OECD
Synthesis of research on 39 digital impacts on wellbeing.
Read the Report
Research Database
Digital Futures for Children
Free database of good-quality research on children’s digital lives.
Explore Now
Teen Digital Well-Being Guide
Susan Crown Exchange
Three youth-tested activities to build healthier digital habits.
Get the Guide
Children’s Rights in the Digital Age – In Our Own Words
5Rights Foundation
Youth-friendly version of the UN General Comment No. 25.
Read Now
Your Rights Online
Digital Futures for Children
Youth-friendly site about rights, safety, and fun online.
Explore
Report Harmful Content
UK Safer Internet Centre
How to report or remove abuse/disrespect across platforms.
Use the Tool
NeedHelpNow.ca
Canadian Centre for Child Protection
Steps to take if an intimate image of a minor is shared online.
Get Support
How Technology Can Be Part of a Happy Life
Greater Good Science Center
Science-based tips for tech that supports happiness.
Read Article
Why Going Offline Might Save Us
Science of Happiness (GGSC)
What we gain by unplugging and reconnecting IRL.
Listen Now
Healthy Relationship with Technology
Greater Good Science Center
Curated, evidence-based tips and activities.
View Resources
BBC Bitesize: Happy & Healthy Online
BBC
Interactive lessons and games for younger audiences.
Explore
Smiling Mind
Smiling Mind
Free nonprofit mindfulness app with age-based programs for kids, teens, and adults.
Get App
Daylio
Daylio
Free journaling and mood tracking app to support self-reflection and wellbeing.
Get App
Catch It
University of Liverpool / NHS
CBT-based mood diary app helping young people track and manage feelings.
Get App
Clear Fear
stem4
$2.99 in Canada: app offers strategies to manage anxiety, developed with youth input.
Get App
Combined Minds
stem4
$2.99 in Canada: gives guidance for friends and family supporting someone with mental health challenges.
Get App
Apart of Me
Apart of Me
Therapeutic game designed to help young people cope with grief and loss.
Get App
Embracing Life App
Embracing Life Initiative
Feel more positive/connected and reach out to support someone you’re worried about.
Get the App
Rights of the Child in the Digital Environment
United Nations – General Comment No. 25
Authoritative guidance on implementing children’s rights online.
Read Now
Digital Citizenship Curriculum
Common Sense Education
Free K–12 curriculum on balance, empathy, privacy and respect online.
Get Curriculum
Social Media Advice Hub
Internet Matters
Tips for families and schools to foster respect and kindness online.
Go to Hub
Dealing with Online Abuse / Negative Behaviour
eSafety Commissioner (Australia)
Practical support for LGBTIQ+ young people and the adults who help them.
Learn More
Be an Upstander
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Interactive toolkit for responding to online hate and disrespect.
Visit Resource
Canada's State of the Youth Report
Government of Canada
Results and recommendations from consultations with 996 young people across Canada, including Health & Wellness.
Read the ReportExplore Resources By:
Research – Reports, articles, findings, background reading
For Youth – Interactive tools, guides, and activities designed for youth
Apps – Free apps developed by/with non-profits and researchers - designed for youth
Supporting Youth – Resources for educators, parents, policymakers, and practitioners
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