Forbes May 2, 2022
The mental health of America’s young people was a major national concern before COVID-19. Now it’s reached crisis stage. As a nation, it’s past time to prioritize youth mental health and provide young people with the support they need. And employers have a significant role to play.
At the height of the pandemic, ER visits for mental health emergencies jumped by 24% for children aged 5-11 and 31% for those aged 12-17. Suspected suicide attempts by teen girls increased by more than 50%. Rising rates of depression, anxiety, loneliness, isolation, trauma and despair are clearly having a devastating effect on America’s youth.
Why do employers need to take a leadership role in addressing this crisis?
For starters, young people aren’t...