Oceanside Youth Face Unique Challenges, Exceed Provincial Averages in Substance Use

Strategic Insights -

Youth in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region are struggling with mental health challenges and substance use, with nearly one-third reporting they turned to substances because of feelings of sadness, stress, or downness, according to the first-ever Oceanside State of Children and Youth report. The report, titled Stories Beyond Statistics: Understanding Children and Youth in Oceanside, highlights the experiences, challenges, and strengths of young people in the community, aiming to inform policy and guide program development.

Key Takeaways:

  • Oceanside youth face increasing mental health challenges, with one in four needing mental health services in 2023, yet only eight per cent were able to access them.
  • Housing is a significant concern, with 44 per cent of renters and 14 per cent of homeowners finding housing unaffordable, and the proportion of children and youth living in low-income households being three per cent higher than the Island Health and B.C. average.
  • Oceanside youth exceed provincial averages in substance use, with 32 per cent reporting having used substances because they felt down, sad, or stressed, and females were more likely to use substances including vaping, tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis than males.
  • Despite challenges, youth report strong family connections and a sense of optimism, with 80 per cent saying things are going well and 66 per cent feeling they have a good life.
  • The report emphasizes the importance of upstream prevention, early intervention, and coordinated community-based services, calling for greater investment in affordable childcare, inclusive recreation, mental health supports, and culturally responsive care.

Statistics:

  • One in four youth needed mental health services in 2023.
  • Only eight per cent of youth were able to access mental health services in 2023.
  • 44 per cent of renters and 14 per cent of homeowners find housing in Oceanside unaffordable.
  • The proportion of children and youth living in low-income households in Oceanside is three per cent higher than the Island Health and B.C. average.
  • 32 per cent of Oceanside youth report using substances because they felt down, sad, or stressed.
  • Females are more likely to use substances including vaping, tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis than males in Oceanside.
  • 80 per cent of Oceanside youth report things are going well.
  • 66 per cent of Oceanside youth feel they have a good life.

Sources:

  • Oceanside State of Children and Youth Report 2025
  • NOW Network news release
  • Naut' sa mawt Oceanside Wellness Network