Maine Students Share Positive Mental Health Gains in Recent Survey: Discover Their Insights!

AUGUSTA — Recent surveys reveal some encouraging news about Maine high school students: they’re drinking less alcohol, using less cannabis, and their mental health is improving.

The Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey is conducted every two years to track students’ well-being. The latest data from last spring shows a drop in the number of students feeling sad or hopeless for two weeks or more, from 35% in 2023 to 28% in 2025.

Sheila Nelson, who oversees adolescent health at the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, expressed her enthusiasm about the mental health trends. “We’re pleased to see improvements. Fewer young people are experiencing depression and thoughts of suicide, which is positive news,” she said.

Substance use also declined. Specifically, the percentage of high schoolers who admitted to drinking alcohol in the past month fell from 20.5% to 16.5%. Cannabis use dropped from 18.7% to 14.6%, and vape pen usage decreased from 15.6% to 13%.

Nelson noted that the reasons for these trends aren’t clear-cut but mentioned that increased conversations about mental health following the COVID-19 pandemic have made a difference. More young people are reaching out for help, and adults are more aware of their need for support.

A separate survey from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services indicates significant progress: 97% of schools now offer mental health programs, compared to just 88% in 2022. This highlights a growing commitment to student well-being.

However, challenges remain. The report found a rise in the use of dissolvable tobacco and nicotine pouches among students. Additionally, girls and LGBTQ+ students reported feeling sad for an extended period at twice the rate of boys.

Looking ahead, the state will continue its Filter Out the Noise campaign, which encourages students to seek help when they or a friend are in distress. Nelson emphasized that everyone can play a part in supporting youth.

“Being present for young people is key. They need to know they’re cared for and valued,” she said. “We all have a role in making sure they feel supported.”

This environment of support and awareness may be crucial for fostering a healthier generation. As more adults step in to help, the future for Maine’s youth looks brighter.



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Susan Cover, APP In the Community, Around Maine – More Maine News, Publish to X Threads ME, APP Around Maine, Maine, Publish to Facebook ME, Health