Gender differences in mental health complaints and in the use of public health nurses among adolescents aged 13–15 years: a cross-sectional study

Internationally, mental health issues among adolescents are increasing. This study examined gender differences in mental health complaints and use of public health nurses (PHNs) in Norwegian school health services. Cross-sectional data from the national Ungdata survey (N = 67,719) were analyzed, focusing on adolescents aged 13–15 based on self-reported gender. Most adolescents reported few complaints and limited contact with PHNs. However, girls reported more complaints, were more likely to consult PHNs, reported a broader range of reasons for contact, and more often reported mental health-specific contact. Findings are consistent with previous research and suggest that gender norms influence help-seeking and engagement with school health services. While girls seek help more often, boys may face greater long-term risk, with higher rates of severe mental disorders and suicide. The results highlight the need for PHNs to address gender-sensitive patterns of service use.