A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates an improvement in teen mental health. According to the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, released on September 21, 2025, one-third of high school students reported experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in the past year, reflecting a 7-percentage-point decrease from 2023, which stood at 40%, and nearly a 10-point drop from the peak of 42% in 2021. Additionally, only 23% of students reported poor mental health, down from 29% in 2021 and 2023.
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Mike Underwood, acting division director of the CDC’s Division of Adolescent Health, described these findings as hopeful during a press briefing. He emphasized the need to maintain momentum to further improve mental health outcomes among teens.
Despite the positive trends, educators express ongoing concerns regarding student mental health. John Malloy, senior vice president for AASA’s Center for Leadership and Learning, noted that removing the years impacted by COVID-19 would likely diminish the reported improvements, as the percentage of students experiencing persistent sadness was 37% in 2019 and 31.5% in 2017.
The survey, which included over 10,700 high school respondents, suggests a reduction in mental health challenges across all demographic groups. However, girls and LGBTQ+ students remain disproportionately affected compared to their male counterparts in various mental health metrics, including serious suicide considerations.
The survey also recorded decreases in suicide risk among teens, with the percentage of students seriously considering suicide dropping from 20% in 2023 to 14% in 2025. Similarly, 12% planned suicides (down from 16%) and 6% attempted suicide (down from 9%).
Experts attribute these improvements to schools' increased focus on student mental health, which includes hiring more mental health professionals and enhancing resource access. Investments from policymakers have also played a role, highlighted by the federal School-Based Mental Health Services Grant, which facilitated hiring and retention of mental health staff, and the Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant that trained new professionals.
Despite these positive developments, there are apprehensions regarding future funding and support. The Trump administration's cancellation of over 200 grants aimed at mental health initiatives in April 2025 has raised concerns about sustained progress. Legal challenges from state attorneys general have aimed to reverse some of these funding cuts, but uncertainty remains about the future availability of these resources.
Experts emphasize the critical need for continued resources to address student mental health effectively. Malloy stated that without adequate funding and staffing, schools will struggle to meet students' mental health and academic needs. Lauraine Langreo writes for Education Week, focusing on education technology, student well-being, and readiness for college and careers.