The report also found that more than half (52%) of LGBQ+ students had recently experienced poor mental health and, relatedly, 1 in 5 (22%) had attempted suicide in the past year . Trend data is not available for students who identify as LGBQ+ due to changes in survey methods.
Findings by race and ethnicity also show persistently high and worsening levels of sadness or hopelessness across all racial and ethnic groups; And reported that there has been an increase in suicide attempts among black youth and white youth.
Director of Adolescent and School Health Kathleen Ethier, Ph.D. “With the right programs and services, schools have a unique ability to help our youth thrive.”
School-based activities can make a profound difference in the lives of adolescents with relatively little support from schools. More than 95% of America’s youth spend most of their daily lives in school. While their primary goal is academic education, schools can take evidence-based steps to prevent and reduce the negative impact of violence and other trauma, and to promote the knowledge, skills and supports needed to improve mental health. For example, safe and trusted adults—such as mentors, trained teachers, and staff—can help foster engagement with the school, so teens know that those around them care about them, their well-being, and their success. Schools can provide education that equips adolescents with essential skills, such as understanding and ensuring correct sexual consent, managing emotions and asking for what they need. Schools can also connect teens to their classmates and communities through school-based clubs and community outreach.
CDC has collected and analyzed data on youth health and well-being for more than three decades. These data are an important first step in uncovering, understanding and addressing emerging threats to the health and well-being of the nation’s youth.
988 Suicide Prevention
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are concerned about a loved one who may be in need of crisis support, contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988. Chat at 988lifeline.org, Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free and available 24/7/365. Visit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for more information at 988lifeline.org,