Depressive symptoms are more prevalent among teenage girls than their male counterparts, while boys' mental health is more impacted by obesity.
However, bullying has a more significant correlation with developing depressive symptoms compared to being overweight, irrespective of gender, as discovered by Uppsala University researchers.
Let's find out more.
A new study on teen depression
The study, published in the Journal of Public Health, tracked adolescents over six years through questionnaires.
Regardless of weight, girls reported experiencing depressive symptoms more frequently.
Interestingly, a higher BMI did not greatly influence the mental well-being of girls. However, among boys, the situation was notably different.
Boys with obesity in 2012 had a statistically five times higher risk of experiencing depressive symptoms in 2015 compared to boys with normal weight.
The study also revealed a strong association between exposure to bullying and a higher risk of depressive symptoms.
This connection persisted six years later, particularly among overweight boys.
Why is it important?
The researchers believe this suggests a gender-based difference in how BMI and bullying jointly contribute to the development of future depressive symptoms.
The study highlights the long-lasting impact of bullying on mental health and underscores the importance of preventive measures against bullying in schools.
The researchers suggest further investigation into the gender differences observed in the relationship between BMI, bullying, and depressive symptoms.
