“You have to invest time in seeking out resources, and I’m not always knowing where to go.” –Seattle Public Schools student
Seattle’s youth are experiencing growing mental health challenges, while families and providers navigate a fragmented system of services. To make effective investments, City leaders recognized the need to better understand how students experience mental health support and where there are gaps in access, awareness, and trust.
To support this work, the Innovation & Performance (IP) team conducted a citywide, human-centered research study in 2024 focused on student mental health. By listening directly to students, parents, subject matter experts, educators, and community-based providers, IP translated the community’s experiences and needs into evidence-based insights. This research was used to inform the City’s expansion of youth mental health services.
By the Numbers
- 71% of 12th-grade Seattle Public Schools students reported feelings of anxiety in 2023
- 30% of 12th-graders reported feelings of depression in 2023
- 200+ participant voices captured through interviews, focus groups, and surveys with students, parents, educators, providers, subject matter experts, and representatives from other jurisdictions
Challenge
Youth mental health services in Seattle span schools, community-based organizations, and health systems. Many students and families reported difficulty understanding what services are available, how to access them, and whether those services would meet their needs.
Community-based providers also identified growing demand and staffing challenges. With new funding allocated to support student mental health, City leaders sought credible, community-informed insights to ensure investments were responsive, equitable, and grounded in real experiences.
Investments Informed by the Community Priorities
IP designed and led a mixed-methods research study grounded in human-centered and equitable engagement. The team gathered input directly from youth and adults through interviews, focus groups, and surveys. This work identified barriers, opportunities, and patterns in how young people experience mental health support.
The research clarified where investments could have the greatest impact, including expanding access points, improving awareness, and strengthening culturally responsive care.
Findings were documented in a public report that provided clear evidence for decision-makers while reflecting the complexity of student and provider experiences. These research findings informed the City’s strategy for expanding youth mental health services in the 2025-2026 budget. This approach ensured that City actions were informed by the people most affected.
Results
- Insights supported the $7 million investment in local mental health provider partnerships
- Additional funding in the 2025–2026 City budget totaling $19.25 million expanded services and supports for youth
- City leaders gained clearer understanding of student experiences, informing both telehealth and in-person service expansion decisions
Partners
- Mayor’s Office
- Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL)
- Seattle Public School (SPS)
- Community-based youth mental health providers
- Seattle students, caregivers, faculty, and educators