New Study Reveals Troubling News About Montana’s Teenagers

New Study Reveals a Troubling Trend for Montana Teens

We like to picture Montana as a great place to raise strong, independent kids, and for the most part, it really is.

However, a new national study reveals that teenagers across the Treasure State are dealing with some challenges that deserve our attention.

Montana Earns An Unwanted No. 1 Ranking

According to a recently released WalletHub report, Montana ranks as the 12th most at-risk state in America for youth.

Researchers looked at everything from education and employment to health and overall well-being to see where kids are facing the biggest obstacles.

One statistic stands out more than any other. Montana ranked No. 1 in the health category. Unfortunately, in this case, No. 1 means we're the most at risk.

We also have the third-highest percentage of teen drug users in the country, which sadly isn't all that surprising. Communities across Montana have been dealing with drug issues for decades.

It's not all bad news, though.

Source: WalletHub

Education And Employment Offer A Brighter Outlook

The silver lining on this report is education and employment, where Montana ranked 33rd. That suggests many of the challenges facing our kids aren't necessarily tied to schools or job opportunities.

Studies like this one never tell the whole story, and they certainly don't define every kid growing up in Montana. Still, these rankings are a reminder that not every struggle is easy to see. Oftentimes, the biggest battles our kids are facing are the ones happening quietly.