Nearly 60 percent of Wisconsin high school students reported at least one mental health challenge in the 2023 Youth Risky Behaviors Survey. Only twenty percent of those who reported significant mental health challenges reported receiving the help they needed most or all of the time. Students of color, queer students, and female students reported significantly higher rates of anxiety, suicidality, and self-harm.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing are critical. One indicator that is closely linked to both is a sense of belonging.  54 percent of students agreed or strongly agreed they belong at their school.  That leaves 46 percent that don’t feel they belong at school.

This is a huge issue, and libraries can only be a small part of the solution, but for many teens there are things the library does that can make a huge difference.  Finding materials in the collection that reflect a teen’s identity and experience, along with resources to help navigate mental health challenges can make a huge difference.  Including opportunities for kids, teens, and families to have a voice, belong, play, and explore social and emotional skills are all more important than you might think.  And those relationships you are developing with young kids, tweens, and teens all make a difference!  Keep up the important work, and let’s keep thinking about how libraries can be part of the solution.