PA Teen Mental Health Coalition

37.3%6-12th graders in PA felt sad or depressed most days
16.1%6-12th graders in PA seriously considered suicide
27.9%PA teenagers have no one to talk to when sad, lonely or worried

The 2023 Pennsylvania Youth Survey indicates that 37.3% of 6th to 12th graders in Pennsylvania felt sad or depressed most days in the past 12 months, and 16.1% seriously considered suicide. The reported cases of suicidal ideation and self-harm among teenagers underscore the urgency of addressing mental health issues in this demographic. At a time when teenagers are in dire need of connection and care, 27.9% indicate that they have no one to talk to when sad, lonely or worried.

In light of increasing challenges and limited funding for the critical services that can help to support teens, a new coalition has formed to advocate for sustainable, statewide investment in teen mental health.

The PA Teen Mental Health Coalition aims to bring together community-based organizations (CBOs) and partners across Pennsylvania to advocate for policies and funding to support CBOs in providing teen mental health prevention and early intervention services.