For immediate release. Belleville, ON. January 26, 2026.

Mood Disorders Society of Canada, celebrating its 25th year of providing a strong, cohesive voice at the national level to improve access to treatment, inform research, and shape program development and government policies, is relaunching the National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC), with a renewed focus on community, youth-led advocacy, and systems-level change in mental health.

NYAC is a national network of young people aged 14 to 29 from across Canada who work together to amplify youth voices, inform mental health policy, and advocate for accessible, inclusive mental health systems. The relaunch reflects NYAC’s growing role as a collective of youth leaders transforming lived experience into action.

“Youth are often invited to share their stories, but not always given the power to shape decisions,” said NYAC National Co-Chair Joshua Bell. “NYAC exists to change that — by ensuring young people are not just consulted, but actively leading conversations, policies, and solutions around mental health.”

“The members of our NYAC are incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated leaders who are making a significant contribution to youth mental health advocacy in Canada”, states Dave Gallson, National Executive Director of MDSC.

As part of its relaunch, NYAC is placing a stronger emphasis on:

  • Youth-led mental health advocacy and policy engagement
  • Community-building and peer connection
  • Amplifying lived experience in ethical, meaningful ways
  • Highlighting the tangible impact of youth voices on national mental health initiatives

Through initiatives including national surveys, policy recommendations, public awareness campaigns, podcasts, and partnerships, NYAC works closely with MDSC to provide youth-informed insights that strengthen programs, research, and advocacy efforts across Canada.

The relaunch also aims to make NYAC more accessible and welcoming to youth from diverse backgrounds, regions, and lived experiences — reinforcing the council’s commitment to equity, collaboration, and respectful engagement.

“Youth mental health is not just a personal issue but is a systems issue,” said NYAC National Co-Chair Eden Agulnik. “This relaunch is about showing that young people are not only impacted by mental health systems, but capable of changing them.”

Young people ages 14-29, partners, educators, and community organizations are invited to learn more, get involved, and join the movement.

Media Contacts:

Joshua Bell / Eden Agulnik
Co-Chairs, NYAC of MDSC
nyac@mdsc.ca

Mood Disorders Society of Canada
info@mdsc.ca
(613) 921-5565

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