Teen Anxiety and Stress Impacting US Economy, Study Finds

A new study reveals that anxiety and depression among teenagers are significantly affecting the US economy.

Researchers estimate that addressing mental health challenges in just 10% of teens could save $52 billion in the national budget over the next decade.

The research, published in PLOS Medicine, highlights how mental health struggles during adolescence hinder future workforce participation and earnings.

Teens with anxiety or depression are less likely to enter the job market early and tend to earn nearly $5,700 less annually once employed.

The study analyzed data from over 3,300 participants in an ongoing Bureau of Labor Statistics project.

It tracked their mental health as teenagers (ages 15-17) in 2000 and examined their career outcomes a decade later, in 2010.

The findings were stark: only 6% of those with anxiety or depression as teens had stable employment in their early adulthood.

Researchers suggest that addressing these mental health issues could lead to substantial economic benefits.

By providing support to just 10% of teens at risk, the US could see a $52 billion boost in revenue over the next 10 years.

However, the study notes that implementing a nationwide program to help 25% of teens would require at least $10 billion in investment.

“Increasing mental health interventions for teens could lead to significant long-term returns,” said Nathaniel Counts, lead researcher and Chief Policy Officer at The Kennedy Forum. “Investing in adolescent mental health will not only improve individual lives but could also provide substantial benefits to the national economy.”