Best
Practices that show evidence of effectiveness in improving public health outcomes when implemented in multiple real-life settings, as indicated by achievement of aims consistent with the objectives of the activities.

Protecting Youth Mental Health – The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory

The Office of the Surgeon General

Release Date:

Summary Report/Recommendations

Data Collection and Analysis
Organizational Change/ Development
Outreach/ Education/ Communications
Policy Change/ Development
Healthcare Access and Quality
Tools Included
Outside U.S.
Network of people

Partnerships and Collaboration

Recent national surveys of young people have shown alarming increases in the prevalence of certain mental health challenges. We know that mental health is shaped by many factors, from our genes and brain chemistry to our relationships with family and friends, neighborhood conditions, and larger social forces and policies. As we learn the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, and start recovering and rebuilding, we have an opportunity. Everyone has a role to play in combating this mental health pandemic. Ensuring healthy children and families will take an all-of-society effort, including policy, institutional, and individual changes. This advisory provides actionable recommendations for young people and their families, schools and health care systems, tech and media companies, employers, community organizations and governments alike. Mental health challenges are treatable and often preventable. This advisory shows how.

Resource Details

Outcomes of Interest

Priority Population(s)

People With a Mental Illness

Setting(s) of Implementation

Geographic Area of Implementation

Implementation Period

2021