Young people report better mental health and lower drug use

A major US government survey has found encouraging improvements in young people’s mental health and substance use.

Data collected between 2021 and 2025 showed that fewer teenagers aged 12 to 17 had recently used tobacco, alcohol or marijuana, while binge drinking also declined. Fewer reported major depressive episodes, serious thoughts of suicide, making a suicide plan or attempting suicide. Young adults aged 18 to 25 showed similarly positive trends.

The findings matter because they track changes across the population, rather than relying on a small local programme. They suggest that some of the pressures facing young people may be easing and offer public-health teams clearer evidence about where progress is occurring.

There is still a long way to go. Nearly one in five adolescents surveyed had moderate or severe anxiety symptoms, and more than 80% of people who needed substance-use treatment did not receive it. The direction is hopeful, but continued support, reliable monitoring and accessible treatment remain essential.