GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – UnitedHealthcare released new insights on young adult and student mental health showing increased rates of depression, anxiety and ADHD.
The fourth annual report surveyed four groups: those aged 18 to 28 both in college and not in college, and their parents.
“Of those in college, almost 70% of them either are suffering from a mental health condition or concern or their close friends are. Though parents of those that are in college, only 43% actually recognized that their kiddos were suffering,” said Dr. Nordstrom, chief medical officer of Rocky Mountain Health Plans.
UnitedHealth has been following these trends for four years. This year showed the highest report for depression, anxiety and ADHD.
“Obviously, we were hoping to see more comfortable trends, right? Decrease, not increase. So, that is really concerning,” Nordstrom said.
The report showed 30% of young adults rely on AI tools for information about symptoms.
“Concerningly, though, of that group, of that 30%, a quarter of them said, this is where we go for reassurance, for support, for, you know, emotional support and companionship,” Nordstrom said.
Nordstrom said AI is not human and should not be used as a therapist. Instead, young adults should seek help and connect with health care providers.
“Getting that first visit with a primary care doctor to really do a head-to-toe checkup to figure out what is going on and to help you get the right resources. And then here in Colorado, there is iMatter. And that is a program that was set up by the state for kiddos 18 and younger to get six free therapy visits, basically almost no questions asked,” Nordstrom said.
If young adults are experiencing any symptoms or changes to mood, Nordstrom said not to wait.
“Don’t let that go. And parents, don’t be afraid to ask. It is so important just to initiate the conversation. Mental health is treatable. And so it’s important to identify it and then take that first step,” Nordstrom said.
Resources through state Medicaid and Rocky Mountain Health Plans are available for residents.
For immediate support, call or text the Colorado Mental Health Line at 988.