Alarming Findings From CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey

According to the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey released in February 2023, the rate of depression and anxiety is at an all-time high. This survey, conducted since 1991, also found other findings that should serve as a call to action for caring adults everywhere.

Depression and Anxiety in Teenagers

Three in five teenage girls reported that they were feeling depressed and sad. That figure is up over 60% from a decade ago. While more guys were also feeling depressed and sad, that figure over the last decade rose from 21% to 27%. Furthermore, the study found that 25% of girls had contemplated suicide the previous year, and 10% had made a suicide attempt. The study also found alcohol use was more prevalent among girls than boys.

LGBQ+ Students

Almost 14% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning students report not attending classes because of safety concerns compared to 7% of heterosexual students. Nearly 69% of LGBQ+ students reported persistent unhappiness while 35% of their heterosexual peers reported these feelings. Furthermore, the study found that 52% of LGBQ+ students reported having at least one day with poor mental health within the last 30 days, and 37% said they had made a suicide plan. Sadly, 22% said they had attempted to carry out their plan.

The Answer

The CDC offers three key strategies that they believe will help turn these disturbing trends around. The first is for schools to create an environment where students feel cared for, supported, and belong. The agency also calls for increased access to healthcare, including mental health services. Finally, they want inclusive health education taught at each grade level.

There is no doubt that these programs will take a while to implement. If you have a depressed teenager, you may not have time to wait. Please set up an appointment today so we can help you guide your teen down a path where they can become happy and successful.