Nearly 60% of high school students in Wisconsin disclosed facing mental health challenges in the past year, according to the latest state survey released on Tuesday. The survey involved 1,882 students from 42 public, charter, and alternative high schools and was conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
Students highlighted an increase in mental health struggles and a decrease in support both at home and in school. They also noted a rise in social media and overall screen time usage, with almost 80% reporting spending over three hours daily on screens. Furthermore, approximately 20% of students indicated getting less than five hours of sleep per night.
Jill Underly, the state superintendent of education, stressed the importance of enhancing mental health services in schools upon the survey’s publication, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies over isolating students in need.
The survey revealed that over half of students experienced anxiety, with 35% grappling with depression nearly every day for at least two consecutive weeks. Additionally, more than 20% reported engaging in non-suicidal self-harm. LGBTQ+ and female students encountered higher rates of mental health challenges compared to their peers.
Despite the substantial number of students encountering mental health difficulties, there were some positive findings, such as a decline in alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. The survey also indicated a persistent long-term trend of reduced sexual activity among teenagers compared to previous years.
The survey has been a regular feature in Wisconsin public high schools since 1993, providing valuable insights into the well-being of students every two years.