Who is more likely to face depression? Teen girls or boys?

[WORLD] Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development, Aiman Athirah Sulaiman, has highlighted the alarming disparity in mental health issues faced by teen girls compared to their male counterparts. According to her, research has shown that teenage girls are twice as likely to experience depression as teenage boys, a trend that is becoming increasingly concerning in today's society.

The Growing Mental Health Crisis Among Teen Girls

Mental health is a growing issue in many countries, with more attention being drawn to the challenges faced by teenagers, particularly girls. In a statement made on February 24, 2025, she shared her concerns, explaining how the mental health of Malaysian teenagers has become a critical concern. She emphasized that the prevalence of depression is notably higher among girls than boys, underlining the need for more focused support systems to address this issue.

“Teen girls are twice as likely to face depression compared to boys. This is a worrying trend, and it’s essential that we address it now before it leads to even more severe consequences in the future,” she stated.

What Contributes to Depression in Teen Girls?

There are various factors that contribute to the higher rates of depression in teen girls, some of which are biological, psychological, and social in nature. A major contributor to this growing mental health crisis is the pressures that girls face, both at home and in society.

1. Social Media and Body Image

In today’s digital age, social media plays a significant role in shaping how young people perceive themselves and their lives. For teenage girls, the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards portrayed on platforms like Instagram and TikTok can be overwhelming. Studies have shown that constant exposure to “idealized” images can lead to body dissatisfaction, lower self-esteem, and feelings of inadequacy.

“Teen girls often struggle with self-image issues due to the unrealistic portrayals of women on social media,” said the deputy minister, adding that these unrealistic standards could lead to emotional struggles, which may eventually manifest as depression.

2. Academic and Family Expectations

The pressure to perform academically and meet family expectations is another major stressor for teenage girls. This pressure can lead to a sense of inadequacy when expectations are not met, which in turn can contribute to mental health challenges like depression.

“Parents and society often place a lot of expectations on girls to excel in both academics and personal responsibilities,” she remarked. “This kind of pressure, especially when combined with other societal expectations, can cause significant emotional strain.”

3. Gender Stereotypes and Societal Expectations

Cultural and gender expectations can also contribute to feelings of depression. Girls often face societal pressures to be "perfect," balancing the roles of student, daughter, and future career person, all while dealing with growing social and emotional complexities.

“These pressures often result in feelings of hopelessness or frustration, especially when girls are unable to meet the unrealistic expectations set by society,” said the deputy minister.

Impact of Depression on Teen Girls

The consequences of untreated depression in teen girls can be severe, affecting every aspect of their lives. Depression can lead to problems in school, with girls struggling to concentrate, complete assignments, and participate in social activities. It can also lead to strained relationships with family and friends.

Furthermore, untreated depression in adolescence can increase the risk of developing other mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and self-harm behaviors. In severe cases, depression can also lead to suicidal thoughts and actions.

She emphasized the importance of early intervention to prevent these severe consequences. “We need to identify the signs of depression early and provide the necessary support to prevent the mental health issues from escalating,” she said.

The Role of Schools and Communities in Supporting Teen Girls

To address this issue, she called for a stronger focus on mental health education and support within schools. She noted that teachers, school counselors, and parents must work together to create an environment where teen girls feel comfortable discussing their mental health challenges without fear of stigma.

“Schools should play a pivotal role in promoting mental health awareness and creating a safe space for students to talk about their struggles,” she stated. “By providing proper resources and counseling services, we can help teen girls navigate the challenges they face.”

Government’s Efforts to Combat Mental Health Issues

The Malaysian government has acknowledged the increasing mental health challenges faced by teenagers and is taking steps to address the issue. Efforts are being made to integrate mental health education into school curriculums, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and resources to manage their mental well-being.

In addition, the government is working with various organizations to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the need for early intervention. She mentioned that there are also ongoing efforts to provide training for parents, helping them better understand the signs of depression and how to support their children.

“Education and awareness are key,” said the deputy minister. “We want to ensure that mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health, and that both parents and students know where to seek help when needed.”

The Need for a Comprehensive Mental Health Strategy

While these initiatives are a step in the right direction, mental health experts argue that a more comprehensive strategy is needed to tackle depression among teen girls effectively. This strategy should include better access to mental health services, reduced stigma around mental health, and increased efforts to address the root causes of depression, such as social media pressures and academic stress.

She concluded by urging society to be more compassionate and supportive of teenagers facing mental health struggles. She also encouraged everyone to work together to create an environment where teens, particularly girls, can feel safe and supported in expressing their feelings and seeking help.

“We must work collectively to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health,” she said. “By offering our support and understanding, we can help our teenagers grow into confident, healthy individuals who are able to overcome the challenges they face.”

The alarming increase in depression among teen girls is a complex issue that requires immediate attention and intervention. With a higher prevalence of depression in girls compared to boys, it is essential for society, schools, and families to come together and provide the necessary support and resources. A comprehensive mental health strategy, along with increased awareness and early intervention, can help combat this growing crisis and ensure that teenage girls receive the help they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

By tackling this issue head-on, Malaysia can work toward a future where mental health is prioritized, and teen girls are given the support and care they deserve.