Minnesota student mental health rebounds post-pandemic

Minnesota officials said the results showed a need to continue investing in public education and health measures.

“When students feel safe, supported and nourished, they are more engaged and ready to learn,” Education Commissioner Willie Jett said in a statement.

Cunningham said the survey results showed “the importance of supporting Minnesota families to secure basic needs, such as food and health care and address the root causes and adverse effects of incarceration, homelessness and substance misuse.”

The survey queried more than 119,000 students in grades 5, 8, 9 and 11 in early 2025.

Some results remain unchanged compared to 2022. Students in 11th grade were just as likely this year to report experiencing sexually, emotionally or physically abusive or controlling experiences in their relationships this year as they were three years ago.

Surveyors this year also expanded the questions asked of students, including inquiries about technology use and gun violence.

Results show that six percent of Minnesota high school students had witnessed people using guns to threaten or hurt someone.

Ninety percent of students surveyed said they used social media every day, with many noting social media use made it more difficult for them to complete homework, chores or other responsibilities.

More than half of high school students said screen time infringed on their sleep, with one in five saying they used screens between midnight and 5 a.m. on school nights.