Indigenous peoples make up nearly 5% of Canada's population, and disparities in young peoples' educational and recreational opportunities are acute.<br />Housing is inadequate on many reserves with some remote communities cut off from the rest of Canada for weeks or months during the year.<br />Among Canada's First Nations' youth, depression and suicide is already over 3 times the average of non-indigenous people.<br />CNN reports the pandemic is adding a layer of risk to young indigenous lives. Government officials say the impact on mental health may linger for years.<br />For months this year, children, parents, and entire rural, indigenous communities were left without the support they had fought so hard to establish.<br />Living in a reserve it gets depressing over time. You begin to feel isolated, you find yourself parting ways with your friends. It takes a huge toll on your health. Farrah Dixon Norway House Cree Nation, Manitoba, Canada
