Howard County Youth Risk Behavior Survey Reveals Mixed Trends in Mental Health and Substance Use

The latest YRBS report outlines significant trends through the 2024-2025 school year, showcasing both progress and ongoing challenges in youth behavioral health. Notable progress includes a decline in the use of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and electronic smoking devices (ESDs) among students, indicative of successful prevention efforts. However, mental health measures reveal more complex developments, with some groups reporting increased feelings of sadness and suicidal behaviors.

“Collectively, these trends highlight both successes and the persistent issues facing our youth,” said Antigone Vickery, Deputy Health Officer. “While we are heartened by the notable declines in substance use and fewer high school suicide attempts, the increases in reported sadness, particularly among some middle school demographics, underscore the necessity of enhancing mental health support and early intervention.”

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball emphasized the county's commitment to its youth, citing various initiatives such as the Youth Engagement Programming, expanded Summer Youth Employment Program, school-based mental health services, and the development of The Source community center. He acknowledged the importance of the YRBS in assessing long-term trends and guiding support for youth needs.

Key findings from the survey reveal an increase in reported sadness or hopelessness among middle school students, rising from 19.4% in 2013 to 29.0% in 2024. While alcohol use decreased from 6.0% to 3.7% over the same period, a recent uptick among male students has been noted. Mental health indicators show mixed patterns, with Black students and females experiencing rising suicidal thoughts, while some improvement has been observed among multiracial students.

For high school students, sadness or hopelessness also increased from 23.3% to 28.3% between 2013 and 2024. Conversely, suicidal considerations dropped for Hispanic students, and suicide attempts significantly fell from 16.1% to 5.6% from 2021 to 2024. Substance use, including alcohol, declined from 30.1% to 12.7% over the same time frame, reflecting long-term positive trends.

Despite these improvements, concerns persist over rising mental health issues, particularly sadness among middle and high school students. In response, HCHD is implementing a comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program and promoting resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Crisis Text Line. Community initiatives aim to reduce stigma around mental health discussions and encourage help-seeking behaviors.

The department is also working to better serve youth by revising the Teen Health Matters website based on student feedback and establishing a Youth Advisory Council to ensure programs align with current youth needs.

Overall, the 2024-2025 YRBS results indicate significant progress in reducing substance use among Howard County youths, though they highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address mental health challenges. Further details from the Maryland Youth Risk Behavior Survey can be found on the Maryland Department of Health website, alongside information on HCHD's initiatives.