California Youth Face Mental Health Crisis Amidst Rising Anxiety
A significant study has revealed that approximately 94% of young people in California regularly encounter mental health challenges. Conducted by Blue Shield of California in partnership with Children Now, the research highlights troubling trends among individuals aged 14 to 25. One-third of the surveyed youth described their mental health as “fair” or “poor,” indicating a widespread crisis.
The survey, which included 750 respondents from across the state between April and June 2023, uncovered that socioeconomic factors heavily impact the mental well-being of California’s youth. Concerns regarding housing affordability were prevalent, with 87% of participants identifying this issue as a significant stressor. Additionally, 84% of respondents expressed worry about rising grocery prices, while 73% cited difficulty in securing good employment as a primary concern.
Gun violence also emerged as a prominent issue, affecting 85% of those surveyed. Climate change and racism were highlighted by 78% of respondents as critical topics that weigh on their mental health. Notably, youths in Los Angeles reported the highest levels of poor mental health, with 90% indicating that housing affordability is a top concern, alongside 85% who mentioned climate change and discrimination against immigrants.
During a recent conference titled Wellness Together in San Diego, school leaders and mental health professionals discussed these findings. Nicole Stelter, director of behavioral health at Blue Shield of California, emphasized the urgent need for adults to acknowledge these issues. “The data shows youth are deeply affected by the world around them, from climate anxiety and safety to social media pressures,” Stelter stated. “It’s more important than ever that clinicians, educators, policymakers, and caring adults listen to what our youth are saying and treat this seriously for what it is — a youth mental health crisis.”
Despite these challenges, the survey also revealed a sense of hope among young people. More than two-thirds expressed optimism about the future and engaged in activities such as exercise and hobbies to protect their mental health. Many are advocating for change, with 99% of those concerned about climate change reporting that they are taking pro-climate actions themselves.
Barriers to mental health care persist, however. Over a third of youth who sought professional help stated that feeling “embarrassed” was a significant reason for not pursuing it. More than 20% cited affordability issues and lack of knowledge about where to find help as additional obstacles.
Despite these barriers, young people are finding support among peers and through community service. Stelter encouraged youth to engage in activities that resonate with their interests, such as volunteering for beach cleanups or animal shelters. “You will meet people there who have that common interest and common purpose,” she noted.
Lishaun Francis, director of behavioral health at Children Now, who collaborated on the survey, affirmed the proactive nature of today’s youth. “[Young people] are not passive. They want to be in the driver’s seat for their future, and they’re clearly taking action,” Francis remarked.
As California grapples with these mental health challenges, the findings underscore the urgency for comprehensive support systems and open dialogues to address the pressing concerns faced by its younger population.
