Research suggests today’s school-age male students encounter increased levels of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress and suicidal ideation. These disturbing findings can potentially impact their academic achievement and overall health and well-being. While male students are slightly less likely than their female or gender diverse peers to report mental health challenges, they are more likely to relate to and identify with myths and stereotypes associated with masculinity along with appearing emotionless, independent, or tough. Despite research showing that boys and girls benefit equally from psychological strategies, interventions, and overall treatment plans, males exhibit increased reluctance toward seeking, and utilizing such.
In these turbulent unprecedented times within our school districts nationwide, the school nurse’s role is so critical in bridging gaps to overcoming barriers in accessing mental health care for all students, especially our male students by promoting provocative conversations around their mental health, advocating for overall trust between staff and students, uphold our roles as the Chief Wellness Officers within our schools, and providing holistic support for our students and families. As colleagues, we learn and grow personally and professionally from one another’s experiences and ideas, so come ready to participate in this engaging breakout session on Thursday June 26th from 4:00-5:15 PM at NASN2025 that encourages insightful discussion on the urgency of locking in with our male students on levels that enable opportunities to contribute and pour into them effectively.