As the 2024-25 school year kicks off, the emotional landscape of Houston's youth is coming into sharper focus. A recent Youth Voice survey conducted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston (BGCGH) reveals that many of the city's tweens and teens are entering the school year with a mix of anxiety, anger, and overwhelming emotions.

The survey, which targeted Club members aged 13 to 17, highlights the pressing mental health concerns facing today’s youth. Over half of the respondents admitted to feeling anxious, angry, or overwhelmed at least some of the time. Despite these challenges, there’s a silver lining—75% of those experiencing these intense emotions found solace in discussing their feelings with Club staff, and 71% felt comfortable engaging in conversations about critical social issues.

Mental Health Tops the List of Concerns

“Mental health is the number one social issue on the minds of Houston’s youth,” stated Kevin Hattery, President and CEO of BGCGH. “These findings are a wake-up call. It’s crucial for parents and guardians to check in with their kids, listen to them, and guide them toward emotional and physical well-being. Success in school starts with feeling good about oneself.”

The Youth Voice survey is an essential part of BGCGH's ongoing efforts to support the holistic well-being of its members. The survey results are kept confidential, but they serve as a critical tool for understanding the needs of the youth and tailoring programs accordingly. BGCGH encourages parents to engage in open dialogues with their children and recommends the **Strong Kids Program** for those needing additional mental health support. This initiative, in partnership with UT Health, provides licensed mental health professionals to lead group sessions for children facing various challenges.

“As leaders in youth development, our mission is to continually assess, analyze, and implement programs that inspire and support our members and the broader community,” added Hattery.

Excitement for the Future Meets Overwhelming Challenges

While the survey uncovered some alarming emotional trends, it also found that Houston's youth remain optimistic about their futures. An impressive 87% of teens expressed excitement about what lies ahead. However, this enthusiasm is tempered by feelings of being overwhelmed, particularly concerning the complex processes of applying for college, financial aid, and jobs. Nearly two-thirds of respondents voiced concerns about navigating these critical steps.

This is where the Houston community can make a significant impact. By volunteering time, offering guidance, and providing resources, we can collectively ensure that every young person in our city has access to the support they need to thrive.

Key Insights from the Youth Voice Survey

- Mental Health Dominates Social Concerns: Beyond mental health, Houston's youth are also deeply concerned about racial justice, freedom of speech, women’s rights, and issues related to police and criminal justice. Many feel personally affected by the social issues they deem important.

  - Career Aspirations Meet Uncertainty: While 87% of Club members are thinking about their future careers, a significant 33% are unsure where to start. There’s a clear demand for guidance, with 59% seeking support with college applications and financial aid, and 41% needing help with job applications.