Recent research highlights a critical issue: teenage boys are experiencing depression and anxiety at rates comparable to girls, but their struggles often go unnoticed. As we focus on the mental health challenges of young women, we must not overlook the silent battles boys are facing.
Experts like Kathleen Ethier from the CDC emphasize the need for concern about boys’ mental health, urging us to recognize that they may not display depression in the same way girls do. Dr. Lauren Teverbaugh, a child psychiatrist, points out that depression in boys can manifest as irritability, frustration, or aggression—behaviors often mistaken for typical teenage angst.
A study published in Pediatrics found that while antidepressant prescriptions for teenage girls increased during the pandemic, prescriptions for boys sharply declined. This drop is concerning, as it likely reflects boys disengaging from the healthcare system during lockdowns, leading to underdetection and undertreatment of their mental health needs.
So, what does depression look like in boys? Instead of displaying sadness or withdrawal, boys may exhibit impulsivity, risk-taking behavior, or irritability. Dr. Mai Uchida, a pediatric psychiatrist, warns that this behavior can lead parents and even doctors to overlook the underlying mental health issues. A study found that when irritability is included as a key symptom, depression rates between boys and girls are nearly equal, contradicting the perception that depression primarily affects girls.
There is also a societal normalization of teenage irritability, which can prevent parents and caregivers from recognizing that these behaviors might signal deeper emotional distress. As Dr. Willough Jenkins, a psychiatrist at Rady Children’s Hospital, explains, the myth that teens are “supposed” to be cranky often hides the fact that many boys are struggling with undiagnosed mental health conditions.
The impact of the pandemic on boys’ mental health has been profound. With remote learning and the cancellation of sports and other activities, many referrals for boys needing mental health support simply stopped. Teachers, coaches, and other community caregivers who typically monitor boys’ behavior in group settings lost the ability to flag concerns.
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their sons’ emotional health. Dr. Uchida encourages parents to allow boys to express their sadness and frustrations. Listening, even during outbursts, can provide immense relief. Boys might not always verbalize their feelings, but they can express themselves through activities like sports or online gaming, which provide essential social connections and coping mechanisms.
As we continue to raise awareness about mental health in adolescents, it is vital to include boys in the conversation. Depression in boys may look different, but it is no less significant. We must encourage open communication and create safe spaces for boys to express their emotions without fear of judgment.
Let’s work together to ensure that all young people, regardless of gender, receive the mental health care and support they need.
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Source: Erika Edwards, NBC News