The science behind teen girls' mental health crisis

May 27, 2023

Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios

A brain chemical essential to decision-making and managing stress is emerging as another indicator of why teen girls are bearing the worst of the youth mental health crisis.

Why it matters: The way stress physiologically affects brain development is under-researched, leaving it unclear if there are better ways to identify and treat groups facing increased rates of suicidal behavior, sexual assault and depression.

The big picture: Gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in controlling anxiety and impulses. Low levels of it are associated with addiction and disorders like ADHD, PTSD and depression.

Driving the news: Teens girls who cope poorly with stressors like interpersonal conflict, or feel ill-equipped to find a solution, might be at elevated risk for suicidal behavior, according to a recent study from the American Psychological Association.

Zoom in: Prolonged stress can contribute to low GABA levels and affect the capacity to withstand stress or problem-solve.

What we’re watching: One of the largest studies of adolescent brains with nearly 12,000 kids in the U.S. is underway to determine how childhood experiences affects development.