One-Third of Vermont Students Struggle with Mental Health Challenges, New Survey Reveals

Mental Health Challenges Among Vermont Students

Vermont health officials report that one-third of students in the state face ongoing mental health challenges. The 2023 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows that while drug, alcohol, and tobacco use have improved, issues like stress, anxiety, and depression remain high.

Students indicate that self-harm and suicide planning rates are unchanged since the pandemic. The situation is particularly concerning for female and LGBTQ+ students, who report these issues at higher rates than their peers.

Kelly Dougherty, Deputy Commissioner of the Health Department, stated that young people in Vermont are experiencing increased feelings of hopelessness and isolation compared to 10 years ago. She stressed the importance of adults acknowledging students’ feelings and addressing this growing crisis urgently.

For the first time, students were asked about social media use. Results revealed that 80% of high school students and 60% of middle school students check social media multiple times a day.

Vermont is part of a coalition suing Meta, TikTok, and other companies. The lawsuit claims these companies violate consumer protection laws by negatively impacting teens’ mental health.

This data highlights the ongoing mental health issues faced by Vermont students and the influence of social media on their wellbeing. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the future of the state’s youth.