MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WRN) — New statewide data shows Wisconsin students continue to face mental health issues.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly says the scale of the mental health crisis is immense.
“59% of Wisconsin high school students told us that they dealt with at least one mental health challenge within the past year,” said Underly. “Almost six out of every 10 Wisconsin high schoolers are telling us that they feel anxious, depressed or suicidal.”
LGBTQ+ and female students reported a disproportionate number of mental health challenges compared to peers.
“79% of lesbian, gay or bisexual youth report experiencing anxiety. 63% say they experienced depression. 40% say they’ve considered suicide,” said Underly.
Female survey respondents were twice as likely to harm themselves compared to male students, with almost 67% reporting experiencing anxiety and 45% reporting experiencing depression.
The Department of Instruction’s latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey included responses from nearly 1,900 students in 42 high schools.
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