US CDC Reports Decline in Youth Mental Health During Covid-19

A new study published by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than one-third of high school students reported in 2021 that they experienced poor mental health during the covid-19 pandemic. 

Meanwhile, 44% of high school students reported persistently feeling sad or hopeless during the past year. The new analysis also highlighted some of the severe challenges youth faced during the pandemic. According to CDC data, more than half of students experienced emotional abuse by parents or another adult in the home.

More than one-third of students reported facing racism before or during the pandemic, among which the highest was Asian, including African-Americans and other students of several races, according to the CDC study.

The study is the CDC’s first nationally representative survey of high school students during the pandemic and is helpful to inform effective programmes. The CDC Acting Principal Deputy Director Debra Houry said, “These data echo a cry for help.”

“The pandemic has created traumatic stressors that have the potential to further erode the mental health of students. Our research shows that surrounding youth with the proper support can reverse these trends and help our youth now and in the future as well.” Debra added.