Recent findings from a CDC study, based on feedback from over 20,000 students nationwide, indicate a slight improvement in the mental health of U.S. teenagers, particularly among girls, following years of decline post-pandemic.

The 2023 report, the first update since 2021, shows a reduction in persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness among students overall, dropping from 42% to 40%.

Notably, the percentage of teen girls seriously considering suicide has decreased from 30% in 2021 to 27% in 2023.

Additionally, the percentage of female students experiencing persistent sadness has decreased from 57% to 53%, with similar declines reported among Hispanic students.

The survey also revealed a significant decrease in suicide attempts among Black students, dropping from 14% to 10%.

However, the stark reality remains that in a typical classroom, half of the girls may still be contemplating suicide, highlighting ongoing concerns.

LGBTQ+ students continue to face significant challenges, reporting higher rates of violence, poor mental health, and suicidal behaviors, with nearly 30% experiencing bullying and 20% attempting suicide in 2023.

The report underscores ongoing disparities, with girls and LGBTQ+ students experiencing worse mental health outcomes across multiple metrics.

Despite these positive trends, concerns persist, particularly as certain metrics related to school safety have worsened.

Reports of school violence have increased, with students feeling threatened at school rising from 7% in 2021 to 9% in 2023, and bullying increasing from 15% to 19%.

The survey highlights that female students continue to experience mental health challenges at higher rates than their male peers, with half of the surveyed girls still reporting persistent sadness or helplessness.

CDC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Debra Houry emphasized that while improvements are evident, more work is necessary to ensure all children feel safe and supported.