OLYMPIA, Wash. – The 2023 Washington Healthy Youth Survey, which was released on Wednesday, shows improved mental health in students in grades 6 to 12, but also imparts concerns about teen substance abuse.
According to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), young people across the state feel that they have more social support.
Amongst 10th graders, 59 percent feel they have an adult they can ask for help when they are depressed, compared to just 50 percent in 2021. 77 percent feel that they have help at school, a 5 percent increase from 2021.
DOH Chief Science Officer Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett is encouraged by positive data trends.
“We see these as a sign that our state’s system of families, schools, communities, and programs are helping to support youth and make positive change…It’s up to us to keep up the momentum and keep things moving in the right direction,” Kwan-Gett said.
While mental health outcomes have improved since the COVID-19 pandemic, the report also showed increased drug misuse. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is collaborating with the Department of Health to address that problem according to Agency Director Will Lukela.
“The Liquor and Cannabis Board’s focus is on preventing youth access to alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, and vapor products and these data make it clear, comprehensive prevention services need to remain a top priority,” Lukela said.
LGBTQ+ students and students with disabilities had worse mental health outcomes than their peers, a consistent trend in youth mental health data.
Washington Health Care Authority Assistant Director Michael Langer argued that addressing inequities will include tackling the nutritional and safety needs of young people.
“It is important to maintain focus on adolescent substance use and mental health, while also using prevention strategies to address other challenges facing young people including disordered eating and violence,” Langer said.
Overall, the data illustrated a gradual recovery from historically low mental health outcomes during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
