Recent reports of mental health concerns, cyberbullying and other inappropriate online behaviour among young people have prompted a reminder to parents from Mounties.
“In a few instances youths have openly shared their mental health concerns. In addition, there has been reports of alleged cyber bulling and threats,” wrote Mounties in a public service announcement.
Reports related to social media can be made on ERASE or Expect Respect and a Safe Education. This platform was created by the province for “secure, anonymous and confidential messages” to be sent to safety representatives for schools.
“For parents, encourage your children to use this app if they witness online bullying or inappropriate activity involving fellow students,” said Sgt Dwayne Croll, the operation support non-commissioned officer for the Fort St John RCMP.
“Parents should always manage their youth’s cellular or computer activity via parental controls. Please take the time to research internet safety with regards to social media platforms.”
A report published in April 2025 by Mental Health Research Canada found an increase in suicidal ideation among users of Snapchat and TikTok, compared with non-social media users and people who use other apps.
Mounties referred parents and caregivers to the International Center for Digital Threat Assessment’s Raising Digitally Responsible Youth guide.
