Commonwealth Policy Center

The CDC released a startling report that one in four young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 have considered suicide in the past month. More than 40 percent of those surveyed said they experienced a mental or behavioral health breakdown related to government shutdowns over coronavirus. And 13.3 percent of those surveyed admitted to abusing drugs and alcohol to cope with stress. Human beings are social creatures and when we’re shut out from gathering with friends, family, and coworkers, it will take a mental toll. This report tells us just how high the toll is on our young people. It’s time for the government to consider important data like this and tailor policies that promote safety while supporting the whole person including their mental health.