The CDC conducted the Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey (ABES) survey during 2021 that asked adolescents important questions about mental health and suicidal ideation. The ABES survey asked about important pandemic related societal themes including economic hardship, family loss or illness, and reduced access to health care. The results of the ABES survey have raised important concerns about the mental health and well-being of our adolescents related to the disruptions and consequences related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including school closures, social isolation, and family well-being for our nations adolescents. The CDC found 30-day mental health concerns and suicidal ideation was higher among females than males. The table below shows the CDC’s ABE survey results for males and females with poor mental health and suicidality.
IBH Analytics has conducted research in several local communities during 2021/2022 and have observed similar concerns with local survey data indicating females are experiencing greater mental health and suicidality concerns compared to males. We are strongly advocating for additional prevention efforts dedicated toward mental health and suicide prevention for our adolescents.
Article citation and to find out more:
Jones SE, Ethier KA, Hertz M, et al. Mental Health, Suicidality, and Connectedness Among High School Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic — Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey, United States, January–June 2021. MMWR Suppl 2022;71(Suppl-3):16–21. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.su7103a3