Head Injuries and the Gender Gap in Anxiety and Depression Symptoms

ObjectivesUsing 2017-2022 Midlife in the United States Biomarker Project data, this study explores the contribution of head injuries to the gender gap in depression and anxiety symptoms.MethodsLinear regression models were used to estimate generation-specific gender differences symptoms. The contribution of head injuries to these differences was explored. In addition, sources of potential confounding were examined.ResultsAmong women, a lifetime head injury is associated with a large increase in symptoms, and within Generation X the association is stronger. There is no association among men. Almost a third of Generation X women report a serious lifetime head injury. The contributions of accidents and sports injuries have increased between cohorts. The association between head injuries and symptoms is robust to numerous potential confounders, including other bodily injuries and trait anxiety.ConclusionHead injuries contribute to the gender gap in depression and especially anxiety.