Mental health planning in the era of a pandemic: appropriately matching mental health needs with resources across Canada through a rapid assessment of COVID-19's impact on adults and older adults.

This timely study is a unique opportunity to assess the impact of COVID-19 on depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress rates and health service use in adults and older adults across Canada and estimate their health needs and impact on future health services and related health system costs. This evidence will inform Canada-wide and province specific strategic planning for the allocation of human and financial resources to offer quality mental health services that will meet the mental health needs of adults and older adults; highlight at-risk groups to inform recommendations on tailored mental health strategies and additional resources required post-pandemic; and provide a comprehensive baseline portrait of mental health status and needs during the pandemic to prepare for Canada's mental health response to future outbreaks.