According to the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Summary & Trends Report, indicators of poor mental health and suicidal thoughts and behaviors among high school students in the United States have increased. 

• 42% of high school students reported having persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• 22% seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year

Youth with poor mental health are more likely to engage in drug use and risky sexual behaviors. We must take immediate action in raising awareness and supporting youth mental health to ensure that all youth can lead happy and healthy lives. 

Get Involved: 

• Provide youth with tools and techniques to support their mental health and well-being.
• Encourage parents and caregivers to check in with the teens in their lives.
• Share tips with teens on starting the conversation with a trusted adult or mental health professional.
• Use social media to help raise awareness about the importance of promoting adolescent mental health. 
• Explore the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s action guide to learn about evidence-based strategies for improving students’ mental health.