CDPHE releases 2023 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey Data
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released the results from the 2023 administration of the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (HKCS) on June 13. The HKCS is administered every other year to Colorado’s middle and high school students. It’s an anonymous and voluntary opportunity for young people to report their health status in the areas of nutrition, physical activity, suicide, bullying, mental health, tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, drugs, sexual health, experiences of violence and racism, school and community engagement, and access to trusted adults. The HKCS is Colorado’s most comprehensive data source for understanding how young people are doing. Public and private organizations use this survey’s state and regional health data to identify trends and enhance school- and community-based programs that improve the health and well-being of young people. Data from the 2023 survey show:
- A decrease in the percent of youth who experienced feelings of depression in the past year.
- Decreases in the percent of youth who had thoughts of suicide, made a suicide plan and attempted suicide in the past year.
- A decrease in the percent of youth who currently use alcohol, electronic vapor products, and prescription pain medication without a prescription.
- No change in the percent of youth who currently use marijuana and cigarettes.
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The associated files and links are available below.