Study: California’s Youth Battle Anxiety and Stress
Youth Mental Health Crisis in California
A recent report by Blue Shield of California and Children Now reveals that about 94% of young people in the state experience regular mental health challenges. One-third of these individuals reported their mental health as “fair” or “poor.” Despite these challenges, many young people express hope for the future and believe that addressing their mental health issues and taking action on causes they care about helps them cope.
The survey, which included 750 participants aged 14 to 25 between April and June, uncovered several key findings:
- About 98% of those who reported poor mental health are youths of color.
- 25% of those reporting poor mental health are LGBTQ+.
- Top stressors include gun violence, housing affordability, discrimination, and climate change.
- More than a third of respondents felt too embarrassed to seek professional help.
Socioeconomic Issues and Mental Health
Socioeconomic issues were identified as significant contributors to mental health struggles among young people. The survey found that:
- 87% of respondents were concerned about the cost of housing.
- 84% worried about the price of groceries.
- 73% cited the ability to find a good job as a top concern.
- 85% expressed concerns about gun violence.
- 78% cited climate change and racism as key stressors.
Los Angeles residents reported the highest levels of poor mental health in the state. About 90% of L.A. respondents cited housing affordability as a top issue, with 85% highlighting both climate change and discrimination against immigrants as key stressors.
Addressing the Crisis
At a recent student mental health conference in San Diego called Wellness Together, school leaders and student mental health professionals discussed the survey’s findings. Nicole Stelter, director of behavioral health at Blue Shield of California, emphasized the impact of external factors on youth mental health.
“The data shows youth are deeply affected by the world around them, from climate anxiety and safety to social media pressures,” said Stelter. “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.”
Barriers to Care and Sources of Support
Despite the need for support, more than a third of young people who wanted professional help for their mental health issues said feeling “embarrassed” was the main reason they did not seek it. Over a fifth mentioned they could not afford mental health care and did not know where to find help.
However, students can still find meaningful support in each other, especially through community service. Stelter encouraged young people to engage in activities that align with their interests.
“If you are into beach cleanup, go do that. If you are into volunteering at a pet shelter or animal shelter, do that,” Stelter said. “You will meet people there who have that common interest and common purpose.”
Optimism and Action
About two-thirds of young people said they were optimistic about the future, engaging in activities such as exercise and hobbies to protect their mental health and advocating for change. Approximately 99% of those concerned about climate change said they were taking pro-climate action themselves.
“[Young people] are not passive. They want to be in the driver’s seat for their future, and they’re clearly taking action,” said Lishaun Francis, director of behavioral health at Children Now, who conducted the survey with Blue Shield.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support for young people in California. As the report underscores, the challenges faced by youth are multifaceted, requiring coordinated efforts from various sectors to ensure that young people receive the care and support they need.
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