Youth Mental Health in Crisis

Medical experts in Colorado urge the declaration of a state mental health emergency for its young people: “We are seeing our pediatric emergency departments and our inpatient units overrun with kids attempting suicide and suffering from other forms of major mental health illness.” This Chalkbeat article about the circumstances that led to the declaration demonstrates the gravity of the crisis across all states.

Our work can help. Two Canadian studies reinforce the importance of social programs for young people. This 2021 study from leading pediatricians and psychiatrists in Toronto underscores the negative effects of social isolation on young people. Another, conducted by University of British Columbia researchers in 2020, highlights the importance of extracurricular activities for young people during this time and the therapeutic-like results they can have on mental health challenges. Youth programming matters more than ever; now is the time to increase your advocacy.