In today’s world, teenage boys are facing a crisis that often goes unnoticed: their mental health. Anxiety, depression, despair, and even suicidal thoughts plague young boys and young men alike. Shockingly, teenage boys and young men in the United States are more than twice as likely, and sometimes up to four times as likely, to die by suicide compared to their female counterparts. They are also at a higher risk of gun violence and drug overdoses. It’s time to shed light on this crucial issue that often remains overlooked by both the public and health care professionals.

The increase in youth mental health issues has garnered considerable attention in recent times, with the U.S. surgeon general calling it “the defining public health crisis of our time.” But a lot of this has focused on the struggles of adolescent girls and LGBTQ+ teens.

Undoubtedly, these issues deserve our utmost attention and support. However, it is a mistake to assume that teenage boys and young men are faring well. As someone who writes and speaks about boys and has personal experience raising four sons, I understand that male depression and anxiety often manifest as irritability, rage, or anger. Many young males turn to alcohol or drugs as a form of self-medication for undiagnosed conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. It is essential to recognize that teenage boys and young men are also in need of support and understanding.

Challenging societal expectations.

Society perpetuates harmful stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing their emotional pain. By adolescence, most teenage boys have learned that it’s best to ignore physical and mental pain. The pressure to “man up,” refrain from crying, or “rub some dirt on it” creates a culture that disregards their emotional well-being. Consequently, teenage boys are more likely to avoid seeking medical care and less likely to admit to feelings of persistent sadness or hopelessness. Although they may not speak their pain aloud, this silence often leads to suicide, gun violence, or overdose. It is crucial that we break these barriers and encourage boys to acknowledge and communicate their pain.

Call to action.

To address the crisis in boys’ mental health, we must take action. It is vital to screen young males for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. When necessary, connect them to local support networks. Educate yourself and others about male mental health, dispelling the misconceptions and providing a safe space for boys talk about their struggles. If you know someone experiencing suicidal thoughts, equip yourself with the knowledge and empathy to support them effectively. A highly recommended resource is Loving Someone With Suicidal Thoughts: What Family, Friends, and Partners Can Say and Do, by Stacey Freedenthal, PhD.

Our boys need us. We cannot afford to overlook their mental health any longer. By shedding light on the crisis affecting teenage boys and young men, we can provide the care, attention, and support they desperately require. Let us break the societal barriers, challenge the stereotypes, and create a world where boys feel safe to express their emotions. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our boys, ensuring their mental well-being and helping them become the resilient, healthy men of tomorrow.

Jennifer L.W. Fink, RN, BSN, is the author of Building Boys: Raising Great Guys in a World that Misunderstands Males and The First-Time Mom’s Guide to Raising Boys: Practice Advice for Your Son’s Formative Years. She’s also the creator of BuildingBoys.net and co-host of the podcast ON BOYS: Real Talk About Parenting, Teaching, & Reaching Tomorrow’s Men.