During the recent Town Council meeting in Jackson, Teton County, significant discussions centered on community health, particularly concerning mental health trends among youth. Council members reviewed insights from a recent Board of Health meeting, where experts highlighted findings from the Wyoming Prevention Needs Assessment.

This statewide questionnaire, aimed at middle and high school students, revealed a troubling increase in depression rates during the pandemic. While the data indicated that suicidal ideation has returned to pre-pandemic levels, the persistent rise in depression remains a critical concern for local health officials.

The discussions were timely, coinciding with Suicide Awareness Month, emphasizing the need for ongoing community support and resources to address mental health challenges. Council members acknowledged the importance of these findings and their implications for local health initiatives.

As the council continues to prioritize mental health, the community can expect further discussions and potential actions aimed at supporting youth and addressing these pressing issues.