Youth mental health challenges on the rise

Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-5th District, delivered the following remarks at the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee Hearing on legislation to support mental health and the well-being of people in America.

The following are excerpts from her prepared remarks.

By Cathy McMorris Rodgers

“Our children are in crisis. More high schoolers are unhappy and depressed. Mental health emergencies are increasing. Last year, there was a two-and-a-half fold increase in emergency department visits for suicidal ideation and self-harm among children under 18.

“It’s hard to know where to begin. I...