MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) — Dane County has published the findings from its 2024 youth survey, revealing notable changes in mental and physical health trends among students following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Dane County Youth Assessment (DCYA), which is conducted every three years for students in grades seven through twelve, aims to capture insights into their opinions, concerns, behaviors, attitudes, and experiences. The latest survey engaged over 24,000 students across 17 school districts.
According to the Department of Human Services, anxiety and depression levels among this age group have been on the rise since 2009. However, the 2024 survey indicates a positive shift, with these mental health indicators dropping back to levels observed in 2015.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the availability of mental health services alongside a reduction in binge drinking and instances of students missing meals. These factors are believed to contribute to the overall improvement in student mental health.
Despite these encouraging trends, the survey also highlighted a concerning issue: many students reported increased difficulties with homework due to a lack of sleep. This indicates that while mental health may be improving, challenges remain that affect students’ academic performance and overall well-being.
Related topics:
