In Case You Haven't Heard…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) this month launched Free Mind , a new national campaign that provides youth ages 12 to 17 and their parents and caregivers with resources and information about substance use, mental health and the connection between the two, a news release stated. The number of teens reporting poor mental health has increased in the past decade. In 2023, 40% of high school students stopped regular activities because of persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and one in five students seriously considered attempting suicide. CDC spoke directly with youth about their knowledge and perceptions regarding substance use to develop messages, branding and tactical strategies for Free Mind . The campaign seeks to resonate with this age group by addressing the connections between substance use and mental health, risk factors that contribute to drug use and strategies to keep them safe. CDC also has created resources for parents and caregivers about the latest substance use and mental health challenges youth may face.