Depression is More Prevalent in Artistic Teens

A recent longitudinal study conducted by researchers at Boston College found that teens who participate in the arts (music, theatre, fine arts) are more likely to report feeling depressed than students who are not involved in these programs. In contrast, students who are involved exclusively in sports are the least likely to report depressive symptoms. Interestingly, those students who participated in arts and sports are still more likely to feel sad than those who participate in sports alone.

Why is this?

In our culture, athletes and artists are both revered and famous. However, in a high school setting, athletic teens are often considered to be more popular and conform more to social mores than artistic teens. Artistic teens may be more prone to social isolation and bullying.

The researchers also suggest that teens who are more creative tend to take in more information from their environment. Heightened awareness of oneself and one’s surroundings can become overwhelming and would lead to more realistic views of our flawed world. While this ability could promote greater creativity and artistic expression, it could also be harmful for the developing mind.


American Psychological Association (2012). “Depressive Symptoms More Likely in Teens Who Choose To Participate In Arts.” Medical News Today. Retrieved from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/253073.php