The 2023 Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) gives us a snapshot of what’s happening with young people across the state. From their thoughts on substance use to their mental health, this survey highlights both positive changes and areas of concern. While we don’t have data specific to our local school or county, the statewide trends offer valuable insights to help us support our youth.

What is PAYS?

PAYS is conducted every two years to help communities like ours understand the attitudes, behaviors, and challenges faced by Pennsylvania youth in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. The survey looks at everything from alcohol and drug use to bullying and mental health. With this information, we can work together to create programs that support healthy development and prevent risky behaviors.

Positive Findings from the 2023 Survey

The 2023 results showed several encouraging trends in Pennsylvania’s youth. These findings remind us that, with the right support, young people can make positive choices.

Decline in Substance Use

One of the survey’s most promising results was the drop in substance use across the state. Compared to previous years, fewer students reported using substances like alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana. For example, lifetime alcohol use dropped to 28.9% in 2023, down from 41.0% in 2019. This decline suggests that prevention programs and education efforts are having a positive impact.

Cigarette use, both lifetime and recent, also continues to fall. The survey reported only 6.1% of students have ever smoked, down from 10.8% in 2019. Similarly, the percentage of students using smokeless tobacco also decreased. This reduction in traditional tobacco use may be linked to more youth understanding the risks associated with smoking and having access to healthier alternatives.

Positive Mental Health Indicators

Another positive finding from the 2023 survey is the increasing focus on mental health and resilience. More schools and communities are emphasizing social-emotional learning, which teaches students how to cope with stress and build positive relationships. This focus helps prevent mental health challenges before they escalate.

PAYS also shows that students talk more about their feelings and seek help when they need it. Schools are becoming key places where students can find support for their mental health. These positive mental health resources may be one reason many young people are better able to handle life’s challenges.

Areas of Concern: Where We Need to Improve

While the survey results highlight some promising trends, they also reveal some areas where we need to focus our efforts. These findings show us that, despite some progress, many young people are still struggling with serious issues.

Vaping Remains an Issue

Even though cigarette smoking has decreased, vaping continues to be a major concern. In 2023, 13.9% of students reported having tried an e-cigarette or vaping product. The rise in vaping is troubling because it often leads to nicotine addiction and other health issues. Young people may see vaping as safer than smoking, but it can still cause long-term harm.

Programs that educate students on the dangers of vaping are critical. Communities can also work to limit the availability of vaping products to minors, making it harder for young people to access these items.

Mental Health Struggles

Despite increased awareness and resources, mental health continues to be a major concern for Pennsylvania youth. The survey found that 37.3% of students felt sad or depressed most days in the past 12 months. Even more alarming, 16.1% of students seriously considered attempting suicide.

That’s about one out of seven students!

These numbers show us that while many young people are finding ways to cope, others are struggling in silence. Schools and communities must continue to improve mental health services and offer support to students who may not be getting the help they need. Early intervention is key to preventing a crisis.

Early Substance Use

Another area of concern is early experimentation with drugs and alcohol. The survey revealed that some students start using substances as early as the 6th grade. Early exposure increases the risk of developing more serious substance use issues later in life.

In particular, alcohol and marijuana remain the most frequently used substances by students. While their use has declined, the fact that so many students are still experimenting with these substances is concerning. Communities need to focus on educating both parents and students about the risks of early substance use and addiction.

How We Can Help Our Youth Thrive

Now that we know what’s working and where we need to improve, the next step is to take action. As a community, we can build on the positive trends while addressing the challenges highlighted by the 2023 PAYS.

Support Substance Use Prevention Programs

First, we must continue to support and fund substance use prevention programs that work. These programs have already helped reduce the rates of alcohol and tobacco use among young people. By focusing on prevention, we can further reduce substance use and help students make healthier choices.

Strengthen Mental Health Services

Second, schools and communities should continue expanding mental health services. More mental health counselors, support groups, and resources for families can help students who are struggling. Schools can also offer more education around mental health, making it easier for students to recognize when they need help and where to find it.

Educate About the Risks of Vaping

Finally, we need to increase education about the risks of vaping. Programs that show students the dangers of vaping, nicotine addiction, and its long-term health effects will help reduce the appeal of e-cigarettes. Parents also play a key role in discussing the risks of vaping with their children and setting clear rules about substance use.

A Shared Responsibility

The 2023 Pennsylvania Youth Survey shows that while we’ve made progress, there’s still work to do. Together, we can continue to reduce substance use, improve mental health, and support our young people. Whether through prevention programs, mental health support, or education about the dangers of vaping, each of us has a role to play in helping our youth thrive.

By focusing on our community’s strengths and addressing the areas of concern, we can create a healthier future for all of Pennsylvania’s youth.