A recent analysis of data from the National Survey of Children’s Health reveals a troubling trend: the prevalence of anxiety and depression among children under 18 has increased consistently from 2016 to 2022. Researchers from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago conducted the study, which found that the percentage of children suffering from anxiety rose from 7.1% in 2016 to 10.6% by 2022. Similarly, the rate of depression in children increased from 3.2% to 4.6% during the same period.
Notably, the study observed no comparable rise in physical health issues, such as asthma, migraines, or heart conditions. In fact, asthma prevalence decreased from 8.4% to 6.5%, and severe headaches or migraines dropped from 3.5% to 2.6%. The stability of heart conditions over the study period suggests that the mental health decline is not matched by an overall decline in physical health.
Lead author Dr. Marie Heffernan emphasizes the urgent need for increased support for youth mental health. She pointed out that despite emerging from the pandemic, mental health issues among children have continued to worsen. “Parents and schools need more resources to effectively support children grappling with anxiety or depression,” Dr. Heffernan stated.
The findings, published in JAMA Pediatrics, indicate a growing mental health crisis among young people. The study also highlighted a slight increase in Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD), although this change did not reach statistical significance. Meanwhile, behavioral or conduct problems in children remained relatively unchanged.
Dr. Michelle Macy, senior author of the study, called for national attention and further research to understand the factors contributing to the increase in anxiety and depression among children and adolescents. She noted, “It is essential to clarify and address the myriad potential causes of these worsening trends.”
The implications of this study are significant. With anxiety and depression on the rise, it is critical for stakeholders—including parents, educators, and health care providers—to recognize the growing need for mental health support and intervention for children. This research underscores the importance of implementing effective programs and resources aimed at improving mental health outcomes for the younger population.
