Over 70% of Voters and Parents Urge Comprehensive Solutions for Youth Mental Health Challenges
As children return to school across the United States, a pressing issue has captured the attention of voters and parents alike: youth mental health. The Coalition to Empower our Future (CEF) has unveiled findings from a recent survey conducted among registered voters and parents during the summer of 2025 across ten states, including Alabama, California, and New York. A resounding more than 70% of respondents expressed support for a comprehensive strategy to address the mental health challenges faced by today’s youth.
This research, intricately carried out in collaboration with Mercury Analytics, surveyed over 6,000 voters to assess their attitudes toward youth mental health and the services available to address it. Additionally, CEF engaged around 300 individuals in online discussions to delve deeper into their perspectives. The results showcase a significant concern among parents and voters regarding the factors affecting young people's mental health, which are considered complex and multifaceted.
Glen Weiner, the executive director of CEF, articulated the shared worry among families, stating, "The new school year means new beginnings but also brings fresh stressors and anxieties. Parents acknowledge that these pressures manifest differently among youths, necessitating a holistic perspective on this issue."
The survey highlights several factors that contribute to youth mental health challenges, including bullying, social media influence, substance abuse, home instability, and exposure to violence. Nearly all respondents concur that mental health experiences among adolescents are not uniform, underscoring the importance of recognizing this diversity to enhance outcomes.
As voters evaluate the current state of youth mental health, a troubling majority express concern over its deteriorating condition. Over 60% of those surveyed personally know young individuals grappling with mental health challenges yet feel lost when it comes to finding adequate support in their communities. This sentiment is echoed by many, with one Illinois voter emphasizing the pressing need for action: "Not much has been done to assist teens facing mental health struggles."
Parents in various states voiced their apprehensions, noting that the lack of accessible resources leaves them feeling helpless. "It’s alarming as a parent to be unaware of where to turn for help when a teen is experiencing mental health difficulties," remarked a Florida voter.
The need for actionable solutions is clear, as most respondents advocate for strategies that foster supportive and secure school environments. Nearly 90% emphasize improvements in mental health accessibility and resources for parents to help their children navigate these issues. Key quotes reflect this need, with one Washington voter saying, "Without help for parents, our kids will be at a loss."
CEF’s findings reflect a growing demand for a nationwide conversation aiming for inclusive strategies to tackle youth mental health. They urge families, educators, policymakers, and communities to collaborate actively in addressing this urgent concern. As we move forward, it is imperative to prioritize a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the myriad factors affecting youth mental health, ensuring a brighter and more resilient future for our children.
For further details, the full survey data is available through CEF's official platforms. The Coalition, which works to unify diverse perspectives in creating empowering solutions for youth and families, includes representatives like former Montana Governor Steve Bullock and various mental health experts.