JED Warns of Threats to Youth Mental Health

Nonprofit calls for stronger protections as digital systems, funding cuts, and social isolation impact young people

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:21pm

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The Jed Foundation (JED), a nonprofit focused on emotional health and suicide prevention for teens and young adults, has issued a national alert about concerning trends that are negatively impacting youth mental health. These include the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, shrinking public resources for mental health services, and increasing social isolation among young people.

Why it matters

Young people's mental health and well-being are under threat from a range of systemic issues, including the rapid growth of digital technologies that may be contributing to isolation and anxiety, cuts to critical mental health funding and services, and the erosion of in-person social connections. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated, multi-sector response to ensure youth have the support they need.

The details

JED CEO John MacPhee warns that the speed and scale of AI development is outpacing the establishment of safety standards and accountability, potentially exposing youth to increased risk of suicidal ideation. At the same time, funding for youth mental health services is being threatened through cuts to LGBTQ+ programs, changes to Medicaid policy, and rising healthcare costs. Social isolation is also a growing concern, with over 40% of Gen Z adults reporting never having had a romantic relationship in their teens.

  • JED issued the national alert on March 16, 2026.

The players

The Jed Foundation (JED)

A nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults.

John MacPhee

The CEO of The Jed Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“Young people are growing up in systems that are fragmenting, automating, and, in some cases, withdrawing human care. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media in everyday life is reshaping emotional development, and we should act quickly to ensure youth well-being is prioritized.”

— John MacPhee, CEO, The Jed Foundation (PRNewswire)

“Evidence suggests AI is already contributing to suicidal ideation and planning, underscoring the need for policymakers to require safety-by-design defaults and establish explicit boundaries around what AI can and can't do.”

— John MacPhee, CEO, The Jed Foundation (PRNewswire)

What’s next

JED is committed to expanding its partnerships with schools, organizations, and communities to strengthen mental health and suicide prevention programs for young people. The organization is also advocating for policy changes and increased funding to address the systemic threats to youth well-being.

The takeaway

The mental health of young people is facing significant challenges from the rapid pace of technological change, shrinking public resources, and the erosion of in-person social connections. Addressing these complex, interrelated issues will require a coordinated, multi-stakeholder effort to ensure youth have the support and resources they need to thrive.