Hawaii is among the best states in the nation for mental health, according to a new national report that praised the state’s affordability of care, youth well-being and access to providers, while also highlighting areas that still need improvement.
The 2025 State of Mental Health in America report, released Wednesday by the nonprofit Mental Health America, ranked Hawaii first in the country for affordability of mental health care and fifth for youth flourishing, with a high share of adolescents reporting positive mental health. The state also ranked eighth for uninsured adults with mental illness, reflecting efforts to expand insurance coverage and connect residents to care.
“This recognition reflects the progress we’ve made together as a community to strengthen access to mental health services, expand insurance coverage and support our youth,” state Department of Health Director Dr. Kenneth Fink said. “We are proud of Hawaii’s national leadership in these areas, but we also know there is more work to do to ensure every resident can get the mental health care they need, when and where they need it.”
The report, which evaluates states using 17 measures of prevalence and access to care, also pointed to weaknesses in Hawaii’s system. The state ranked 30th for youth preventive health visits, with nearly three in 10 adolescents missing a check-up in the past year — a key opportunity for early screening of depression, anxiety and substance use.
Hawaii also ranked 37th for identifying students with emotional disturbance for individualized education programs, raising concerns that many youth with serious needs may not be receiving appropriate school-based supports.
“While we’re encouraged by Hawaii’s rankings in mental health care affordability and youth well-being in this report, it’s also a call to action. Preventive care and supports are great investments when it comes to mental health,” said Tia L. Roberts Hartsock, director of the Office of Wellness and Resilience. “As a state, we are committed to improving our work with schools, families and community partners to ensure young people receive appropriate screenings and services. All our keiki deserve the opportunity to thrive.”
Nationally, the report found that nearly one in four adults experienced a mental illness in 2024, with more than 5 million uninsured. Youth mental health showed some improvement, but millions still face significant challenges.
In Hawaii, health officials say they will continue collaborating with schools, providers and community groups to expand access to services statewide, with a focus on prevention, early intervention and equity.
Source: The Garden Island
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