High School Student Mental Health Improved in 2025
New survey data shows a decline in persistent sadness and suicide ideation among American high schoolers since 2023.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Teens
Live Poll
Do you feel mental health support for teens in your community is improving?
The CDC released survey results from 2025 showing a decrease in reports of persistent sadness and suicide ideation among high school students compared to 2023. While one in three students still reports feeling persistent sadness, these metrics represent a notable shift in youth wellbeing.
Why it matters
Understanding these trends helps families better support their teens, especially as the data highlights that persistent feelings of hopelessness remain a significant issue for a large portion of the high school population.
In 2025, 33% of high school students reported persistent sadness, down from 40% in 2023. Additionally, reports of serious suicide ideation fell to 14% from 20% in the same period.
The players
CDC
The federal agency responsible for national public health surveillance and monitoring adolescent wellbeing through large-scale research initiatives.
The details
The CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey tracked these changes by collecting self-reported data from high school students across the country. The findings indicate that while rates have improved, female students and ninth graders remain more at risk for persistent sadness or hopelessness than their peers.
Timeline
2023 served as the baseline measurement for persistent sadness and suicide ideation.
2025 marked the most recent measurement period for the Youth Risk Behavior Survey.
The Home Front
These findings update the longitudinal health benchmarks established by the CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The data provides families with a clearer picture of current national adolescent mental health trends compared to previous years.
Parents should check in regularly with their teens about their emotional health, especially given the increased risk reported for ninth graders. Use this data as a conversation starter to listen to your child's perspective on their own school experience and overall wellness.
The takeaway
While national metrics show improvement, the reality is that one in three high school students still faces persistent sadness. Focus on maintaining open communication with your teen to identify any changes in their mood or behavior early.
Further reading
For more on navigating adolescent wellbeing at home, visit the Teens section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hometown Radio KBEC.
Live Poll
Do you feel mental health support for teens in your community is improving?
