Teen boys are increasingly facing depression and anxiety, similar to their female counterparts, yet their struggles often go unnoticed and untreated. Kathleen Ethier from the CDC emphasizes the importance of not overlooking boys’ mental health challenges. Traditional symptoms of depression, like sadness and tearfulness, are less common in boys, who may instead exhibit irritability, aggression, and a short temper.
A recent study in the journal Pediatrics highlighted a concerning trend: while antidepressant prescriptions for girls and young women have risen, there’s been a decline for young men since the pandemic began. This drop suggests a decrease in healthcare engagement among male adolescents, leading to underdetection of mental health issues.
Dr. Lauren Teverbaugh notes that boys with depression may not fit the stereotypical image, with symptoms like impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors. The societal myth that teenage irritability is normal further obscures the recognition of potential mental health struggles.
During the pandemic, the decrease in school and sports activities led to fewer mental health referrals for boys, exacerbating the issue. Experts like Dr. Mai Uchida encourage parents to support their sons in expressing emotions and seeking healthy outlets for their feelings.
The CDC’s 2023 report highlighted severe emotional distress in girls, but experts stress that boys are equally struggling. The key is recognizing non-traditional symptoms and providing a supportive environment for boys to express and address their mental health challenges.