High school students in the United States report better mental health, healthier eating habits, and greater participation in sports, signalling positive progress in youth well-being.
“These are meaningful improvements, and they show that progress is possible when schools, families, and communities work together to support young people,” says Dr Jennifer Shuford, deputy director and chief medical officer of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
National survey data from 2023 to 2025 reveal that the proportion of students experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness fell from 40% to 33%, while those reporting poor mental health declined from 29% to 23%. The share seriously considering suicide also dropped from 20% to 14%. Healthy eating habits improved, with daily fruit consumption rising from 33% to 39% and vegetable consumption from 58% to 63%. The percentage of students drinking plain water at least three times daily rose from 54% to 58%, while participation in sports teams increased from 52% to 58%. Challenges remain, particularly sleep, with only 24% getting at least eight hours on school nights. The findings provide valuable guidance for strengthening school health programmes and supporting long-term improvements in young people’s physical and mental well-being.
