Colorado's recent Healthy Kids Colorado survey has revealed encouraging trends in the mental well-being of high school students statewide. Conducted biennially, this comprehensive survey provides crucial insights into youth mental health, particularly significant in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The survey indicates a significant improvement in mental health outcomes among Colorado high school students since the height of the pandemic. In 2023, only 26% of students reported feeling sad or hopeless enough to disrupt their usual activities for two weeks or more—a notable decrease from the peak of 40% during the pandemic. This figure marks the lowest recorded since the survey's inception in 2013, reflecting positive strides in overall mental well-being.
Furthermore, instances of suicidal behaviors and nonsuicidal self-harm have declined to their lowest levels since 2013. This trend underscores progress in reducing severe mental health crises among youth in Colorado.
Despite these improvements, challenges persist. The survey highlights ongoing issues such as students feeling unsafe at school and widespread dissatisfaction with body image. Approximately 10% of students reported skipping school due to safety concerns, and concerns about body image and unhealthy weight control methods remain prevalent.
Access to mental health services remains a critical issue. While there has been some improvement in connecting youth to outpatient care, gaps in availability continue, particularly as schools return to full operation.
On a positive note, a majority of students reported having someone to confide in—whether adults, friends, or crisis lines—indicating a positive trend towards openness and support in addressing mental health challenges.
As Colorado continues to address the complexities of youth mental health, the findings of the Healthy Kids Colorado survey provide a roadmap for future interventions and policies. By focusing on enhancing support systems, improving access to mental health care, and promoting positive school environments, Colorado aims to further bolster the resilience and well-being of its youth.
The survey's extensive scope, covering over 120,000 students across 46 counties, underscores its importance in guiding statewide efforts to support youth mental health. By addressing these findings proactively, Colorado is poised to build upon its progress and create a more supportive environment for its young population in the years ahead.