Understanding youth mental health in the United States

Youth mental health in the United States has become a significant challenge for policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers, as the issue has reached an unprecedented level.  Recent data indicates that in 2024, 20.17% of youth (age 12–17) reported suffering from at least one major depressive episode in the previous year, and that 15% experienced a major depressive episode with severe impairment, impacting their functioning at work, school, or home.

Understanding the causes behind the youth mental health crisis, as well as the impacts and potential solutions, is vital to supporting this vulnerable youth population and creating environments that foster their resilience and growth.

On this page:

Youth mental health statistics and trends
Social media and youth mental health
Youth mental health treatment and support
Youth mental health research and innovations
Stories and successful outcomes
Carelon’s approach to addressing the youth mental health crisis

Youth mental health statistics and trends

The National Alliance on Mental Health reported mental health among youth worsening  in recent years: 1 in 6 U.S. youth age 6–17 experience a mental health disorder each year, 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24, and suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people age 10–14. Some of the most common manifestations of youth mental health challenges present in anxiety, depression, and disordered eating.
 

Anxiety

Youth anxiety disorders involve excessive fear and worry that disrupt their daily life. In addition to persistent worrying, symptoms include restlessness and physical issues, like headaches. These disorders can stem from genetic factors, environmental stresses, or significant life changes. Early intervention with treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication can help manage these conditions and support healthy development.
 

Depression

Depression presents in persistent sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities, along with changes in appetite, sleep, and concentration. The disorder can significantly impact daily life and can result from genetic factors, trauma, or environmental stress. Early intervention with therapy and medication can help provide effective management and improve youth quality of life.
 

Eating disorders

Eating disorders marked by unhealthy eating behaviors and body image issues, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder, and are the third most common chronic illness among adolescents  after obesity and asthma. These disorders can cause severe physical and mental health issues, influenced by genetics, societal pressures, and other mental health problems. Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment — encompassing therapy, medical care, and nutritional support — can significantly help with recovery and fostering a healthy relationship with food and body image.
 

Social media and youth mental health

Social media impacts youth mental health both positively and negatively. It can foster community, self-expression, and support, enhancing well-being. However, it can also increase anxiety and depression through cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons, and pressure for a perfect online image. Excessive use may disrupt sleep and increase isolation. Balancing these effects is essential, highlighting the need for education on healthy social media habits.
 

LGBTQ+ youth mental health

LGBTQ+ youth face numerous challenges that can significantly impact their well-being, such as bullying, discrimination, and rejection from family or peers, leading to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. They may also encounter isolation due to a lack of support or representation in their communities and schools. Additionally, the struggle for acceptance and understanding can contribute to stress and identity-related conflicts. Access to inclusive resources, supportive environments, and affirming relationships can help LGBTQ+ youth navigate these challenges and promote their mental health.
 

Youth mental health and substance use disorders

Youth who struggle with mental health issues may be more vulnerable to substance use and using substances as a form of self-medication, which can in turn worsen mental health disorders. As a result, the symptoms of mental health issues and substance use can blur, which can make it difficult for healthcare providers to diagnose the underlying issues. Healthcare providers can make an impact by adopting an integrated treatment approach, typically a combination of therapy, medication, and support systems.
 

How youth mental health affects society and public health

When youth struggle with their mental health, the challenges impact society and public health  by straining healthcare systems, affecting educational outcomes, and influencing economic stability.  Mental health affecting youth can lead to lower academic achievement and productivity by impairing concentration, increasing absenteeism, and lowering motivation, ultimately hindering youth learning and school engagement. Social stigma can further complicate access to care , perpetuating disadvantage, since youth who experience stigma fear being labeled, ostracized, or judged. This fear can lead to delayed treatment, resulting in worsening symptoms.
 

Youth mental health treatment and support

Addressing the barriers to mental health treatment for youth is crucial in delivering the treatment and support that youth need. These barriers include limited access to specialized care, stigma surrounding mental health issues, and insufficient funding for comprehensive services. Opportunities exist in educational institutions and healthcare providers working collaboratively to ensure a supportive environment prioritizing early intervention and holistic care, while leveraging technology, peer support networks, therapy, and medication when necessary.
 

Prevention and education efforts

A comprehensive approach to successfully treating youth mental health involves prevention, education, and early intervention:

• Integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) in schools, cultivating emotional regulation and empathy, helping to prevent mental health challenges.
• Community education initiatives helping to reduce stigma, while fostering dialogue through workshops and seminars, enhancing awareness among youth and parents, which can lead to improved academic and behavioral outcomes.
• Early intervention can help identify mental health concerns before they escalate, using resources like counseling and digital health platforms.
   

Youth mental health research and innovations

Recent developments involve advances in technology that are transforming treatment landscapes, with digital tools like mental health apps offering personalized support and early detection through real-time monitoring. Online platforms are making mental health resources more accessible and engaging for young people, especially hybrid care models that integrate digital and face-to-face support, which have shown promising results in improving engagement and outcomes .
 

Stories and successful outcomes

Carelon Behavioral Health’s programs have achieved successful outcomes, including combating mental health stigma among youth.

• The Youth Behavioral Health Navigator program facilitates specialized care coordination services for complex and high-risk youth. The program’s goal is to connect youth and their families with the resources they need to reduce repeat visits, also known as recidivism. The initiative specifically targets emergency room utilization and youth involved with law enforcement and works to prevent these incidents from happening in the first place. Data shows that 85% of youth were optimistic for their future, and 100% of youth and their families were satisfied with the impact of the program after having participated.
• The school-based mental health solution fills a gap in behavioral health care access for students by integrating treatment into schools and homes, forming a comprehensive mental health strategy. Available virtually to students up to age 25 in school districts and university systems, the program delivers comprehensive care tailored to the student’s needs. The virtual clinic includes assistance from clinical experts, as well as care coordination with school resources to address various behavioral health concerns such as applied behavior analysis (ABA), substance use disorder (SUD), and suicide prevention.
• The Systems of Care program is a type of wraparound service model that works with families to keep a child in their home. One of the services that the program offers youth and families is Certified Peer Support. Youth peers offer young people developmentally appropriate opportunities to learn coping skills, connect to resources and serve as a source of support.
   

Carelon’s approach to addressing the youth mental health crisis

Carelon Behavioral Health’s programs take a proactive and hands-on approach to helping to address the youth mental health crisis, including proactively identifying and connecting at-risk youth with resources before their struggles worsen. Carelon believes in staying with individuals and their loved ones throughout the care journey to ensure the best possible outcomes.