Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health's annual report focuses on belonging
MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin's Office of Children's Mental Health (OCMH) released their annual report on Friday, Jan. 9.
The report outlines data about the state of mental health for Wisconsin youth up to age 26 and offers ways to improve numbers in the future.
This year's report focuses on belonging, calling it a key to mitigating the youth mental health crisis.
"When youth feel they belong in their school community, they can receive a host of benefits, which include better mental health and better physical health," said Amy Marsman, the senior research analyst for OCMH. “Unfortunately, there has been a 10-year decline in school belonging here in Wisconsin.”
Data show the number of Wisconsin high schoolers who felt they belonged at school dropped from 73% in 2013 to 53% in 2023.
“Kids of color feel even less belonging, with less than half of Hispanic, Black, and multiracial children having a sense of school belonging," Marsman explained.
A positive aspect of the report shows the state is seeing more mental health professionals in schools.
Another positive: the vast majority of high schoolers reported they don't engage in drinking, drugs, or other risky behaviors.
The main concern shows the number of young people experiencing mental illness is on the rise across all age groups.
“There’s been a substantial increase in young adults with mental illness -- a 40% increase over a five-year period," Marsman said.
Researchers found belonging can improve when kids are engaged in groups and activities, and when they feel supported and heard.
"Having a trusting and supportive relationship with adults, not just parents, is without question one of the hallmarks of positive mental health," Marsman said.
“To be a supportive adult, you must learn to love unconditionally and listen without judgement," said Gavin Merriam, a junior at Wausau East High School, who serves as one of OCMH's youth wellness champions.
Click here to read the full report.