5/16/2025

N. WISCONSIN - May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the latest state data shows the number of Wisconsin youth who are struggling with their mental health has peaked.  The report from the Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health shows the numbers have increased dramatically over the past ten years. While rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts went up across the board, girls saw an overall higher increase. Wisconsin boys however, are two to four times more likely to die by suicide than girls according to the study.  The trend shows higher numbers for LGBTQ+ students and students of color.  More than 20 percent of teens reported self-harm and nearly 25 percent of girls reported seriously considering suicide, according to the report. Wisconsin’s "Speak Up, Speak Out" tip line is available 24 hours a day where anyone can report a mental health crisis or threat and receive confidential and professional support.