School survey reveals alarming mental health trends among LGBTQ and disabled students

Mental health concerns among students took center stage at the Weston School Committee meeting on December 16, 2024, as officials revealed alarming statistics regarding the well-being of LGBTQ and disabled students. The data indicates that middle and high school students identifying as LGBTQ are significantly more likely to experience depressive symptoms and self-injury compared to their peers. Specifically, middle school LGBTQ students are 2.5 times more likely to show depressive symptoms, while high school students are twice as likely. The report highlighted a concerning trend: while there have been some improvements since 2021, the mental health challenges for these groups remain critical.

Students with disabilities also face heightened risks, with depressive symptoms reported at 2.2 times the rate of their peers. Although there have been slight decreases in suicidal ideation among these groups, the overall progress is not as pronounced as with LGBTQ students, prompting calls for continued focus on their needs.

The meeting also addressed the impact of increased screen time on student mental health. Data showed that more students are spending over three hours daily on social media and gaming, correlating with rising negative attitudes towards digital media. Students reported feeling pressure to maintain an online presence, which has led to increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Notably, those spending excessive time online are more likely to experience cyberbullying and report depressive symptoms.

In terms of substance use, Weston students generally exhibit lower rates compared to regional peers, but there are emerging concerns. While alcohol use remains a notable issue, particularly among high school students, there has been a slight uptick in prescription drug use. The committee emphasized the importance of addressing these trends through health education programs.

As the meeting concluded, officials underscored the need for ongoing support and intervention strategies to address the mental health and substance use challenges facing students, particularly among vulnerable populations. The data serves as a call to action for the community to prioritize student well-being and foster a supportive environment.