‘Boys are disappearing’ from mental health care as signs of depression go undetected

Teenage boys are facing significant challenges with depression and anxiety, yet their struggles often go unnoticed and untreated. Unlike girls, boys may not exhibit typical signs of depression, such as sadness, making it harder to recognize their mental health issues. Recent studies show a decline in antidepressant prescriptions for boys, especially during the pandemic, suggesting underdetection of their mental health struggles.

Recognizing depression in boys requires understanding their unique symptoms, such as irritability and risk-taking behavior. However, these signs are often overlooked as typical teenage behavior. Caregivers, including parents and healthcare providers, play a crucial role in identifying and supporting boys with mental health issues.

During remote learning and reduced social interaction, referrals for mental health treatment among boys have declined, highlighting the importance of vigilance from teachers and other caregivers. Encouraging boys to express their emotions and providing physical outlets for stress can help support their mental well-being.

Addressing the mental health needs of teenage boys requires increased awareness, improved detection strategies, and comprehensive support systems within families and communities. By recognizing and addressing depression in boys, we can better ensure their overall mental health and well-being.