Key statistics suggest continuing decline in mental health among Wisconsin high school students

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – Concerning new data from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health suggests continuing decline in mental health among high school students.

“It is unfortunate to see the statistics that did come out. We are also seeing similar data within our school district,” said Jamie Ganske.

New data from the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health showed just 53.6% of high school students feel they belong at school. That is a continuous drop from the 73.7% of students who reported they belong back in 2013.

There’s also more data available on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction page that dives into Youth Risk Behavior Survey data among counties.

In Chippewa County, 58% of students feel they belong. In Eau Claire County, just 59% of students feel they belong at school.

35% of students statewide report feeling sad and hopeless.

29% of students in Eau Claire County feel the same, and 26% of Chippewa County students reported it as well.

“That’s a marker for depression,” said Amy Marsman, a researcher with the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health.

“We know that kids are coming into our buildings with a lot of things in their invisible backpacks,” said Christina Watkinson, the student services coordinator with the Eau Claire Area School District.

She said there are methods being adopted to help students out.

“The National Center for Safe and Supportive Learning Environments kind of identifies three areas. Engagement, environment and safety,” said Watkinson.

At the Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District, there are services that include four free counseling sessions for students and families.

“Although they aren’t new, they are definitely becoming more prevalent in our area and our state,” said Ganske.

There is no clear reasoning for certain trends.

“What we do know is what helps,” said Marsman.

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction suggests a routine sleep schedule.

YRBS data showed 35% of Chippewa County students report getting their full 8 hours.

The number is smaller for Eau Claire County students at 28%.

Experts are also recommending to talk to your teen and try to understand their change in mood.

“A lot of the time feedback we hear from youth is that they want to talk, but they don’t want you to suggest a solution. They just want you to listen,” said Marsman.

Watkinson said to not be afraid to reach out to the school to learn more about resources available.

Here is a link to what the ECASD offers.

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