OCMH Senior Research Analyst Amy Marsman spotlights recent articles, resources, and research findings impacting youth mental health.
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Examining the Use of AI chatbots for mental health
The AAP reported that amid a mental health crisis and shortage of mental health professionals, federal officials are considering how best to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots designed to serve as therapists. The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Digital Health Advisory Committee, which formed last year, is reviewing the benefits and harms of AI-enabled digital mental health medical devices and safeguards needed and the threshold required for children and adolescents.
The FDA has authorized 1,200 generative AI medical devices but none for mental health. It has approved fewer than 20 non-AI-powered digital mental health medical devices. Several studies have found significant numbers of people use chatbots for mental health even though they have not been designed or authorized for this purpose.
AI Chatbots, Mental Health Crises, and Adolescents
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots are capable of sophisticated, human-like conversations across a range of applications. Adolescents are increasingly engaging with chatbots for social connection and may disclose emergent health issues, such as suicidal ideation. Researchers in a study of consumer chatbots found that, when prompted with adolescent health emergencies, companion chatbots were mostly empathetic but featured fewer safeguards than general-assistant chatbots, with consistently poor performance in crisis management. These findings were explained in a recent pediatric Research Letter in JAMA Network, cautioning that AI chatbots’ failure to appropriately recognize emergencies may propagate misinformation, discourage seeking care, or even promote dangerous behaviors.
1 in 5 high schoolers has had a romantic AI relationship, or knows someone who has
A new study shows that half of students agree that using AI in class makes them feel less connected to their teacher. The survey data also finds that nearly 1 in 5 high schoolers say they or someone they know has had a romantic relationship with artificial intelligence. And 42% of students surveyed say they or someone they know have used AI for companionship. Among the impact to real-life relationships, the researchers said AI technology can also exacerbate long-standing problems of sexual harassment and bullying among adolescents.
The Culture of Silence and Power of Listening
Surgo Health has released a new report with insights on Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Island (AANHPI) youth. At first glance, data from the Youth Mental Health Tracker (YMHT) indicate that nearly 80% of AANHPI youth are feeling happy and satisfied with life. At the same time, AANHPI youth are 33% less likely to receive a mental health diagnosis compared to their non-AANHPI peers. Asian American youth report less resilience, less likely to manage emotions well, feel less optimistic about their future and have fewer conversations with their families about mental health. The data also reveal that these youth face increased discrimination and are twice as likely to be bullied. Listening to young people and connections are highlighted as responses that will make a difference for AANHPI youth. For related reading, see OCMH’s new resource Addressing Asian American Youth Suicide in Wisconsin.
New study shows five brain phases and adolescence lasting into 30s
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found the brain goes through five distinct phases in life, with pivotal points at ages 9, 32, 66 and 83. The research describes childhood as, on average, ages 0-8 and adolescence ages 9-32, after which the brain enters adulthood and later aging phases. The researchers found a peak around 30 years old. Adolescence was once thought to be confined to the teenage years but has grown into the 20s and now may extend into the early 30s. According to reporting, the findings could help us understand why the risk of mental health disorders varies at different stages of life.
Poll reveals a nation suffering from stress of societal division, loneliness
Loneliness and emotional disconnection appear to have become a defining feature of life in America as a majority of U.S. adults say societal division is a significant source of stress in their lives, according to the latest Stress in America™ survey released by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Half or more adults said they felt isolated (54%), left out (50%), or lacking companionship (50%) often or some of the time. The survey found that among more than 3,000 U.S. adults, nearly seven in 10 (69%) said they needed more emotional support in the past year than they received—an increase from 65% in 2024. This growing gap between emotional needs and available support highlighted a critical challenge: Even as adults recognize their need for connection, many are struggling to find it.
This year’s survey also showed many are evaluating what gives their lives meaning and purpose. An overwhelming 92% of adults recognized relationships as a key source of meaning in their lives. Further, 84% said they believe they can still create a good life, even if it looks different from past generations.
Firearm Storage and Firearm Suicide
In this case-control study of 725 decedents who died by suicide, the odds of dying by firearm suicide were substantially lower for adolescents and young adults (aged 15 to 20 years) when all firearms in their homes were locked. The results differed, however, for adults. Adolescents who died by firearm suicide were far more likely to have lived in a household with unlocked firearms than were adolescent decedents who died by non-firearm suicide methods. Suicide-prevention approaches that aim to reduce suicide mortality should focus on firearm access and storage practices tailored to the population (youth vs adult subpopulations likely to own firearms). For related reading, see OCMH resource Safe Storage Protects Children.
Lessons From a Youth Advisory Board on Black Youth Suicide Prevention
This exploration, Engaging Voices, Shaping Futures, offers lessons on creation of Youth Advisory Boards (YAB) with the goal of lowering Black youth suicide. The work examined how multilevel environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to youth suicide risk, with a particular focus on the role of these factors in racial health disparities among Black youth. Effective suicide prevention interventions require, among other factors, a nuanced understanding of the unique experiences and needs of the target community. To address this challenge, a YAB comprised of Black children was established from the local community in West Philadelphia. Through the YAB, researchers aimed to uncover specific factors that may not be apparent from an academic researcher’s viewpoint and to enhance research impact toward the development of more targeted, culturally relevant suicide prevention strategies. Their lessons learned are summarized and investigators are exploring ways to integrate youth advisory perspectives into future studies by codeveloping research questions, refining intervention strategies, and ensuring that youth voices inform study dissemination efforts.
Many preschoolers with ADHD miss a crucial step in treatment
When pediatricians diagnose preschoolers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, there are clear steps they are supposed to take. Families should first be referred to behavior therapy, which teaches caregivers how to better support their children and manage challenging behaviors that may be related to ADHD. If therapy isn’t making a significant difference, pediatricians can then consider medication. The Hechinger Report reported on findings from a Standford Medicine study that found more than 42% of 3- to 5-year-olds with ADHD were prescribed medication within a month of their diagnosis, skipping the behavioral steps in the treatment process.
Affordability Crisis in America
Financial insecurity is one of the leading sources of stress – often the number one factor – impacting family well-being and mental health. The Urban Institute’s research finds half of American families (52%) don't have the resources to cover what it really costs to live securely in their community.
Americans are facing an affordability crisis as essentials—from rent (up 50% since 2017), child care (up 40%), groceries (up 37%)—to wealth-building opportunities like homeownership (up 80%) or higher education, become more expensive. To understand what costs communities are facing, Urban Institute released The American Affordability Tracker, a new interactive tool that provides timely data on the state of affordability in America—at the national, state, and congressional district level, where available—tracking how Americans are faring financially across costs, resources, and key indicators of financial distress. Related tools include the Financial Health and Wealth Dashboard and the Debt in America: An Interactive Map.
Tax Benefits for Children Shift Toward Middle and High Income Families
About 30% of federal spending on children is delivered through the income tax system—the largest category of federal spending on children. Investing in children from families with low incomes is a proven way to reduce child poverty, improve children’s health, and allow families to invest in their children’s futures. However, new Urban Institute analysis finds that the tax benefits for children included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) will primarily benefit middle- and high-income families. Additionally, OBBBA reduced other programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which are more targeted toward low-income families.
Home Visiting on Track to Provide 1 Million Home Visits in 2025
The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program helps pregnant women and parents of young children improve health and well-being for themselves and their families by partnering with trained home visitors. Home visitors typically screen children for developmental delays and screen mothers for symptoms that could indicate they are suffering from depression. They also help connect families to additional community services. Extensive research has shown that home visiting programs improve outcomes for both children and parents. According to Child Trends, the number of home visits in the U.S. are increasing year over year and are expected to surpass 1 million in fiscal year 2025.
Increase in Developmental Screenings through Home Visiting Programs
More young children are now being screened for developmental delays during home visits funded than in prior years. Child Trends reported on data from the MIECHV Outcomes Dashboard showing 78% of enrolled children received an age-appropriate developmental screening in 2024, up from 69% in 2017. These far exceed the 36% of children who complete developmental screenings nationally. There has also been an increase in maternal depression screenings in home visiting programs: 81% of enrolled mothers (in both Wisconsin and the U.S.) received depression screenings within three months, up from 75%.
Rising Trends of School Disengagement Among Children with Mental Health Conditions
School disengagement is associated with mental health, educational, and behavioral challenges. This study explored school disengagement among children with mental health conditions in a representative sample of U.S. children aged 6 to 17 years. Rates of school disengagement have been higher since 2020 for children with mental health conditions and remain above pre-pandemic levels. The analysis found striking differences in rates of school disengagement: 63% of kids with behavior problems, 53% with depression, 50% with ADHD and 41% with anxiety were disengaged from school. This compares to 19% of all U.S. children. See related resources: commentary in the AAP Blog, study with video abstract, and OCMH Fact Sheet on attendance and absenteeism.
Research on How to Lower Absenteeism
Higher levels of school average absenteeism are associated with major decreases in Math and ELA scores. Chronic absenteeism may also signal mental health concerns. A new EdTrust report highlights strategies that states can take to help all children improve their attendance, and particularly students with disabilities who tend to have more mental health concerns than their peers. Research-backed services like after-school programs and mental health supports help to create a positive school climate, which reduce chronic absenteeism and benefit the whole school community. Knowing that absenteeism hurts all students, schools stand to benefit from school-wide strategies.
National reporting describes shifts from punitive practices (e.g. suspensions) to more supportive practices (e.g., at-home visits). Other research suggests that students receiving special education services who are included at least 40% of the day in the general education setting results in lower rates of chronic absenteeism.
Impact of Psychological Capital on Students
In recent years, the rise of positive psychology has brought increased research attention to psychological capital (PsyCap) as a core construct for understanding individual development and well-being. PsyCap is defined as a positive psychological state of development characterized by four components: self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience. This study found that higher psychological capital was associated with fewer adolescent internalizing problems, more positive life attitude, and, ultimately, improved subjective academic achievement. The findings highlight the role that positive life attitude and attributes (self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience) play in student lives.
More Than a Third of Babies Watch YouTube Videos Daily
Pew Research found a majority (62%) of parents say their child under 2 watches YouTube. A third (35%) of these parents with a child under 2 say their child watches YouTube daily. Half of parents (51%) with children between ages 2 to 4, say their child watches YouTube daily. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time or very limited screen time (video chatting) for children under 18 months. For those 18-24 months old, only limited high-quality programming that is co-viewed is recommended. See the AAP’s early childhood screen time toolkit and their Media Use Guidelines for families.
Smartphones Associated with Depression, Obesity, and Poor Sleep in Adolescents
While many researchers are studying the impact of smartphones, large-scale data on the longitudinal health impacts of smartphone ownership in adolescents is lacking. New research released in Pediatrics adds to the literature, documenting poor health outcomes among 12 and 13-year-olds with a smartphone. The authors found that odds of depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep were 31%, 40%, and 62% higher in 12-year-olds who owned a smartphone than those who didn’t. They also found that the odds of obesity and insufficient sleep increased almost 10% for each additional year of owning a smartphone before age 12. Lastly, they found that 13-year-olds who owned a smartphone were 57% more likely to meet diagnostic criteria for mental illness. The research was based on more than 10,500 adolescents (ages 9-16) in a national data set.
Handbook of Children and Screens
Children and Screens recently released the Handbook of Children and Screens: Digital Media, Development, and Well-Being from Birth Through Adolescence. It includes the expertise of nearly 400 contributors and was published as an open access handbook. The guide covers important ground:
- The cognitive, physical, and psychosocial impacts of digital technology on infants, children, and adolescents
- How media influences individuals as well as relationships, family, culture, and society
- The impacts of specific digital domains pertinent to youth (e.g., education technology, video gaming)
The handbook is intended to help policymakers, educators, healthcare professionals, and parents navigate digital media’s impacts on children and adolescents.
Adverse and Positive Childhood Experiences and Digital Media Use
This study used NSCH data to examine the prevalence of adverse and positive childhood experiences (ACEs and PCEs) and how these rates may vary by light, moderate, and heavy digital media use. Children who had experienced four or more ACEs had a higher odds of heavy digital media use than children who had experienced less than four ACEs. The authors hope the findings prompt pediatricians to screen for ACEs among children with heavy digital media use. They also call for programs and interventions that promote the creation of positive childhood experiences to address digital media usage.
Legacy media more engaging than social media
Teens and Screens is an annual research report based on a nationwide survey of 1,500 tweens, teens, and young adults conducted by the Center for Scholars & Storytellers at UCLA (CSS) to understand more about what young people care about and want to see in entertainment media. The 2025 edition of Teens and Screens revealed:
- A majority (57%) of youth said they watch traditional media more than older generations assume.
- Half (53%) of adolescents said they discuss TV shows and movies with their friends more than they discuss content on social media.
- Youth prioritize friendship stories. Six in 10 adolescents (59%) aged 14 to 24 said they “want to see more content where the central relationships are friendships” and 60.9% want to see more romantic relationships that are “more about the friendship between the couple than sex.”
- A large majority of adolescents (68%) say video games make them feel connected to their friends.
Sexual and gender minority identity, peer victimization, and suicidality in adolescents
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth are more susceptible to suicidal ideation and attempts compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Yet, it is unclear how interpersonal and online victimization experiences account for the elevated suicide risks in this population. This study investigates the extent of peer and cyber victimization among SGM youth and its contribution to their higher risks of suicidal ideation and attempts longitudinally. The researchers found that SGM youth are disproportionately affected by both interpersonal and online victimization, which are subsequently associated with their elevated suicide risks. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to foster safer school and online environments to reduce suicide among SGM youth.
A global report on mental health promotion and prevention identifies 11 promising best practice interventions including school-based resilience programs, mental health literacy training with a focus on front-line professionals, suicide prevention initiatives, and improved access to mental healthcare services. The report finds that symptom severity and duration can be reduced by up to 87% when prompt access to mental health care and support are provided. Programs such as Mental Health First Aid and Zippy’s Friends strengthen protective factors for mental well-being and mental resilience. Other interventions also demonstrated tangible improvements in school attendance and reduced work absenteeism, with reported gains ranging from 50% to 61%.
Study reveals gaps between parent perception and children’s actual sleep
A new study from researchers at Brown University tracked the sleep patterns of 102 elementary school children over the course of a week. While 83% of parents believed their child was sleeping the right amount, sleep trackers showed that only 14% of the children met national sleep guidelines. The findings add to growing concerns that American children aren’t getting the sleep they need. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children between ages 6 and 12 should get between 9-12 hours of sleep per night.
Sleep, Depression, and Negative Reactivity Among Suicidal Adolescents
Daily changes in sleep can impact emotional functioning and may contribute to depression symptomatology and suicidality. The study examined daily and longitudinal changes in sleep and next-day depression in a high-risk adolescent and young adult sample with severe psychopathology, and examined whether daily changes in sleep impacted next-day interpersonal affective reactivity. The findings reveal that sleeping less than usual negatively impacted next-day depressive symptom severity, particularly for individuals with moderate-to-severe depression leading the authors to conclude that short sleep may perpetuate depression. Future work is needed to examine whether increases in sleep duration improves symptoms among this population.
Family Resource Centers Help Young Parents
Family Resource Centers (FRCs) provide critical services to families within their communities, including access to supports for basic needs, help accessing public benefits, and skill-building classes. Child Trends’ latest brief, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, explores the services that FRCs provide across the country, especially to young parents (under age 25). Researchers found that FRCs serving young parents are significantly more likely to help families access certain safety net programs (e.g., the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, and the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC) than those that did not report serving young parents.
Social Disconnection and Depression
This study examined how social disconnectedness relates to depressive symptoms among nearly 2,500 U.S. employed adults. The team found that 31.6% showed possible signs of depression, with the highest rates among younger adults. Across every age group, higher levels of social disconnectedness were significantly associated with greater odds of possible depression, even after accounting for demographic factors. While depression was more common in younger adults, the link between disconnectedness and depression was strongest in middle-aged and older adults. The authors argue that the findings underscore the need for strategies that reduce social disconnection and promote meaningful interaction across all stages of adulthood.
Bridging the Empathy Gap and Influencing Perceptions of Systems-Facing Youth
Systems-facing youth refers to young people who have experience with foster care, homelessness, juvenile justice, and immigration. A quarter (24.7%) of adolescents are systems-facing. The Center for Scholars & Storytellers (CSS) at UCLA has conducted research on how adolescents perceive systems-facing youth and how media could better serve them. Exposure to these young people, including indirect exposure through media, can increase empathy – by over 35% according to CSS’ research.
Report Release: Youth Right Now
The latest report on the status of youth from Boys & Girls Clubs of America – billed as the nation’s largest data set on kids and teens – was recently released. Based on survey findings from 150,000 youth ages 9-18, the Youth Right Now report includes a Health & Well-being section that covers bullying, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, relationship skills and more. Among the results covered, 75% of youth feel they can make a positive difference in their community and 51% volunteer in their neighborhood, school or community at least once a month.
OCMH Research and Data Resources
Key Facts in Youth Mental Health:
https://children.wi.gov/Pages/ResearchData/KeyFacts.aspx
Fact Sheets: https://children.wi.gov/Pages/ResearchData/FactSheets.aspx
Data Sources: https://children.wi.gov/Pages/Resources/DataSources.aspx
Research News in Youth Mental Health: https://children.wi.gov/Pages/OCMHNewsletters.aspx
Youth Mental Health Initiatives: https://children.wi.gov/Pages/Resources/ChildrensInitiatives.aspx
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