New research published in JAMA Network Open shows that children experiencing puberty earlier than average face elevated risks of lifelong mental health issues. The study tracked individuals over eight years and found that early maturation was strongly linked to sustained instances of depression and ADHD symptoms.
Long-Term Psychological Impacts and Contributing Factors for Early Puberty
Early puberty—before age 8 in girls and 9 in boys—triggers rapid physical changes before emotional maturity catches up. This mismatch places children at higher risk for anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and body-image concerns. For girls particularly, early development correlates with heightened social pressures, potential substance use, and deeper depressive disorders. Biological stress responses may intensify these effects. Hormonal surges during accelerated puberty can overactivate stress systems, disrupting emotional regulation. At the same time, overlapping risk factors—such as a stressful home environment or childhood adversity—can compound the effects.
Statistically, early puberty correlates with mental health issues throughout childhood and adolescence and can extend into adulthood. Depression and ADHD remained elevated even eight years post-onset, signaling a prolonged impact instead of a transient delay in emotional growth. Furthermore, the increased physical development often leads to social and cognitive challenges. Children may feel out of sync with peers and face unrealistic expectations or bullying, exacerbating stress and self-doubt. Pediatricians note that early puberty also poses higher chances of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease later in life, meaning physical and mental health must both be monitored.
