What’s Next? Surviving the COVID-19 Pandemic Era and the Mental Health Ramifications Among Emerging Adults (18–25 Years) in Canada

Emerging adulthood, what we and other scholars define as between the ages of 18 and 25, is a period already rife with new beginnings and challenges. The impacts of and response to COVID-19 on a global scale have only increased the uncertainties and changes that emerging adults navigate. This conceptual chapter presents perspectives on the potential impact of current, ongoing, and future COVID-19 realities on emerging adults. As there is limited research on this topic in the Canadian context to date, we review published discussion papers, reports, and other relevant literature on mental health and COVID-19 globally, with attention to Canadian literature where possible. Our primary aim is to identify the ramifications of COVID-19 for emerging adults’ mental health in Canada. In doing so, we highlight the extent of their resilience in the face of the pandemic. In addition, we pose critical questions for public health officials and other stakeholders to help address and better support emerging adults and their mental health during the ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.