February 15, 2023
The CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey offered a concerning look at the nation’s youth mental health crisis, particularly among teen girls and LGBQ+ adolescents.
The 2021 report, released this week, indicates America’s teenagers are reporting dramatic increases in experiences with violence, poor mental health, and suicide risk. The disparities are particularly stark among girls and those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning, or another non-heterosexual identity (LGBQ+), CDC officials said.
“These data are hard to hear and should result in action,” Debra Houry, MD, MPH, CDC chief medical officer, said during a media briefing this week.
Among the takeaways:
The report notes the critical role of schools and evidence-based approaches to care to improve the negative trends in youth mental health. This includes a focus on growing “the knowledge, skills, and support needed to help prevent and reduce the negative impact of violence and other trauma and improve mental health.”
The CDC survey findings are available to review online.
Note: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available online or by texting or calling 988.
Tags: Public Health | Behavioral Health
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