In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the findings of the Metro West adolescent health survey, focusing on substance use and mental health among students in grades 6 through 12. The presentation, led by Julie McCarthy, highlighted key data trends from the 2023 survey, which included participation from 25 communities.

The survey revealed a concerning landscape regarding substance use. While vaping and cannabis use among high school students has declined, alcohol consumption remains a significant issue, with 30.1% of students reporting current use—only a slight decrease from 31.2% in 2021. Notably, alcohol continues to be the most commonly used substance among high schoolers. The data also indicated that 2.7% of students misused prescription drugs, equating to 37 individuals.

The meeting underscored the importance of understanding the perception of harm associated with substance use. Increased awareness of the risks associated with vaping and cannabis appears to correlate with the reported decline in usage. However, the survey also highlighted a troubling trend: 5% of students admitted to driving after consuming alcohol, and 8% reported driving after using cannabis.

Mental health data presented during the meeting painted a similarly concerning picture. Approximately 31% of students reported experiencing high levels of stress, with school being the primary source. Additionally, 36% of students exhibited symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, although this figure has decreased from 42% in 2021. The survey also revealed that 22% of students reported depressive symptoms, with 12% indicating intentional self-injury and 9% having seriously considered suicide in the past year.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the intersection of substance use and mental health, revealing that students who reported substance use also exhibited higher rates of mental health issues. This correlation raises questions about whether mental health challenges are driving substance use among students.

Overall, the findings from the Metro West adolescent health survey highlight critical areas for intervention and support, emphasizing the need for continued focus on both substance use prevention and mental health resources for youth.