Wisconsin's Children Continue to Struggle With Anxiety, Depression, and Thoughts of Suicide

Tuesday, January 16th, 2024 -- 12:01 PM

(Corrinne Hess, Wisconsin Public Radio) Wisconsin’s children, especially girls, children of color and LGBTQ+ youth, continue to struggle with anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide.

According to Corrinne Hess with Wisconsin Public Radio, that’s according to a new annual report from the state’s Office of Children’s Mental Health. The report found key stressors for youth are academic pressures, along with societal issues unique to their generation.

Those include widespread gun violence, climate change and deep political divisiveness. LGBTQ+ youth are also growing up amid political battles over transgender issues involving schools, sports and medical treatment for minors.

Over the last year, legislative proposals have included bills banning gender-affirming surgery for minors and legislation limiting athletes to playing on teams that match the gender they were assigned at birth.

"Political divisiveness over LGBTQ issues can negatively impact all youth but especially LGBTQ kids, as it contributes to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidality," the report found. 

One in 10 Wisconsin teens attempted suicide last year, said Amy Marsman, a senior research analyst with the Office of Children's Mental Health. Nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered killing themselves, Marsman said during a legislative briefing Friday.

"For context, suicide is now the second-leading cause of death among 10- to 14-year-olds," Marsman said. Feelings of belonging can also be a key factor for youth. Kids who feel they belong at their school have better attendance, academic success and mental health.

The report found 61 percent of students said they feel connected at school and 67 percent said they have a trusted adult at school.

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