<![CDATA[The prevalence of depression in Indonesia shows a shift in patterns across age groups, moving from the highest prevalence in the ≥65 age group in 2018 to the 15–24 age group in 2023. Various data and studies indicate that depression is more common in females than in males. However, evidence regarding gender-based differences in depression symptom profiles, particularly among Indonesian adolescents, remains limited. This study aimed to analyze differences in depression symptom profiles between female and male adolescents in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study design was employed using secondary data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI). The sample comprised 618 adolescents aged 15–18 years who were identified as having depression and met the study criteria. Analysis was conducted using logistic regression, accounting for survey weighting and adjusting for education level, employment status, and economic status. The results indicate that female adolescents had higher odds of experiencing changes in appetite or weight (aPOR=2.54; 95% CI: 1.54–4.19), feelings of low self-confidence or worthlessness (aPOR=1.90; 95% CI: 1.20–3.00), feelings of guilt or self-blame (aPOR=2.02; 95% CI: 1.21–3.39), and difficulties in thinking, concentrating, and/or making decisions (aPOR=1.70; 95% CI: 1.08–2.67) compared to male adolescents. Conversely, the odds of symptoms involving slowed speech or movement, restlessness, agitation, and/or an inability to sit still were lower among female adolescents (aPOR=0.48; 95% CI: 0.28–0.83). These findings demonstrate gender-based differences in depression symptom profiles among Indonesian adolescents. These differences need to be considered in gender-sensitive screening and early detection strategies for depression among the adolescent population.]]>
