Maryland is seeing small improvements in mental health among middle and high school students, according to its latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey.
The annual report surveys 60,000 students in Maryland about their health and habits.
The state saw a 2% decrease in students feeling hopeless or sad from 2021 to 2022, however, about one-third of all students still reported feeling those symptoms.
“While we see some encouraging results, the data shows a clear link between multiple adverse childhood experiences and increased risk behaviors,” said Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott. “We are continuing to address the findings through youth-centered health programming, education and outreach to support mental health, reduce tobacco, alcohol, and drug use and protect youth from bullying and violence.”
Read more (and listen) at WYPR.
