Annual Kids Count data finds Marion County youth continue to struggle with mental health, other areas improved

By JILL SHERIDAN The data book is available and includes measures of youth wellbeing. (Courtesy of Indiana Youth Institute) A yearly look at the wellbeing of Hoosier children is out this week, the data also shows how Marion County youth are doing in a number of areas. The& Indiana Kids Count Data Book& takes a deep dive into four measures including health, education, economic well-being, family and community.& The book offers countywide information on numerous factors that influence children. They include a wide range of data that considers things like environment, health insurance, food insecurity and early education. The data book is a comprehensive tool for organizations, both public and private, to determine how to best help youth.& “It’s intended to be the start of conversations, the start of programs, perhaps taking a new approach if we need to take a look at where we aren’t quite hitting that mark,” Silverman said. The Indiana Youth Institute presents the report. President and CEO Tami Silverman said a closer look at youth who have considered or planned suicide finds numbers have dipped statewide but risen in Marion County.& “That’s where we need to really be looking at what services are available. How...