Gone Guys: The Quiet Crisis Facing Our Boys

As I watched Gone Guys in the Champlain Valley Union High School auditorium with a group of men's mental-health club members, educational advocates, and other parents, the sighs just kept coming. Seeing vulnerable, thoughtful young boys reflect on their despair—with no one to talk to, no place to go, and no conceivable future—brought big, deep breaths from everyone in the room.

The riveted audience and an awesome panel—composed of Superintendent and mental-health champion Adam Bunting, Student Assistance Program counselor Matt Meunier, student-athlete Will Wallace, and CVSD mentor and public-health advocate Jim Hyde—collectively took in the bravery of young men who struggle. We can all think of someone we have lost to the phenomenon of depression and loneliness.

From my experience as a pediatrician, finding meaning in life and having some sort of a dream is critical. That spark really needs to be ignited by the age of 18 in males. Marijuana, nicotine, addictive behaviors, loneliness, and isolation through "bed rot" or anger and hatred all lie below that surface of despair. The documentary and the young people in it remind us that they benefit from knowing there are people out there who will listen and help.

Our schools, teams, and communities exist in part to catch kids when they start to fall. A hotline call or a suicide crisis text (dial or text 988) may also help, but positive and available adult presence is critical.

In 2026, in the wake of the pandemic's isolation and heavy dependence on technology, we are doing some rebuilding. Set in rural Vermont, this documentary, and the conversations it sparks, sheds light on the strengths we have in our communities: our young men. They often get a side eye, a worried glance, or maybe a grunt of indifference, but they have a lot to offer. Whether we like it or not, they are part of our future.

As a pediatrician and candidate for Vermont State Senate, issues like boys' mental health, school support systems, and community connection are exactly why I'm running. We have the people and the will—we need leadership that listens and acts.

Thanks to CVSD for standing up for our boys. For more information on how to view this film, visit goneguysfilm.com.