The kids are generally doing well, but let’s be real—many parents and guardians still worry about the younger generation’s mental health and behaviors. Fortunately, we have some valuable insights thanks to the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS). While the acronym may not roll off the tongue easily, this initiative from the CDC has been keeping tabs on adolescent health behaviors since 1991. Over that time, they’ve gathered data from more than 250,000 high school students, giving us a comprehensive look at trends over about three decades.
What’s encouraging is that, on the whole, alcohol and cannabis use among teens is down significantly. For example, back in 2001, a staggering 73% of 12th graders reported using alcohol in the past year. Fast forward to 2023, and that number has plummeted to 46%. And binge drinking? It’s also taken a noticeable dip. While cannabis use has been more stable over the years, it’s down from its peak in the mid-90s, which is quite remarkable given the increase in availability due to legalization in several states.
But here’s where things get a bit more complex. Researchers at Duke University School of Medicine recently set out to see if the positive trends in substance use applied equally to teens who have experienced suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB). This group is especially vulnerable, and understanding their situation is crucial.
Led by researchers Shayna Cheek and Jeremy Grove, the study indicated that while these at-risk teens did show some reduction in alcohol consumption, the drop wasn’t as pronounced as with their peers who hadn’t faced STB. Importantly, cannabis use in this group remained largely unchanged, whereas the general population saw a decline during the same period.
The findings were published in the Journal of Adolescent Health last month, and while they raise concerns, they also shed light on a hopeful path forward. The authors emphasized that we can’t apply the broader trends to all adolescents without consideration. They stressed the necessity for continued screening and tailored interventions for those grappling with STB.
It’s reassuring to see progress overall—kids are generally faring better, and many are making healthier choices. Yet, as parents and caregivers, we can’t ignore the fact that there are still vulnerable teens who need our understanding and support. The journey ahead involves not just celebration of the progress made but active engagement in creating environments where every teen can flourish. Together, we need to ensure that all kids, particularly those facing added challenges, feel seen, supported, and connected.
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