Pennsylvania Student Mental Health Trends Improved
The 2025 Pennsylvania Youth Survey shows more students feel safe and report better mental health than in 2023.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Is student mental health and school safety improving in your local community?
Pennsylvania released findings from the 2025 Youth Survey, which polled students in 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th grades. Results indicate notable improvements in student well-being and school safety compared to the previous 2023 survey.
Why it matters
The survey results provide critical data for parents and school districts to gauge the emotional climate of local schools. Understanding these shifts helps families identify ongoing challenges like bullying and substance risk alongside positive gains in mental health.
The survey recorded a 5% increase in students reporting good overall mental health and school safety compared to 2023. Additionally, one in seven students reported considering suicide in the past year.
The players
Pennsylvania Department of Education
A state agency responsible for overseeing public school systems and implementing educational safety standards.
Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs
A state entity that coordinates services and policy regarding substance abuse prevention among youth.
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
A state office focused on school safety initiatives, juvenile justice, and violence prevention programs.
The details
The state gathered this data by polling students in 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th grades to assess school climate and wellness. While bullying instances remained consistent with prior reports, more students noted that adults are now intervening when bullying occurs. Students also demonstrated increased awareness regarding the risks of alcohol, marijuana, smoking, and prescription drugs.
Timeline
2023: Previous survey conducted.
2025: Survey year for reported data.
October 1, 2026: Survey results presented to state leaders.
The Home Front
The Pennsylvania Youth Survey functions as a key benchmark for tracking student wellness across the state's public school system. This latest report updates the figures previously established by the 2023 survey, marking a departure from past declines in student-reported safety.
Parents should discuss these statewide findings with their children to open a dialogue about school safety and personal well-being. Use this data as a starting point to inquire about the support resources available at your local school district if you are concerned about your child.
The takeaway
While the 5% uptick in mental health reports offers a positive signal, one in seven students still reporting suicidal ideation highlights a persistent need for vigilance. Families should maintain an open line of communication regarding school experiences and utilize school-based counselors as needed.
What happens next
Fourth grade students will participate in the next iteration of the Pennsylvania Youth Survey.
Further reading
For more context on how state reports affect classroom environments, visit Secondary Education.
Live Poll
Is student mental health and school safety improving in your local community?
