Some Quick Depression Facts

Clinical depression affects about 19 million Americans annually. It is estimated to contribute to half of all suicides.

- About 5%-10% of women and 2%-5% of men will experience at least one major depressive episode during their adult life.

- Depression affects people of all races, incomes, and ages, but it is three to five times more common in the elderly than in young people.

- Therapy frequently includes antidepressant medication and supportive care such as psychotherapy.

Depression is caused by a combination of factors:

Biochemistry - Abnormalities in two chemicals in the brain, serotonin and norepinephrine, might contribute to symptoms of depression, including anxiety, irritability and fatigue. Other brain networks undoubtedly are involved as well; scientists are actively seeking new knowledge in this area.

Genetics - Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.

Personality - People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be vulnerable to depression.

Environmental factors - Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make people who are already susceptible to depression all the more vulnerable to the illness. Also, a medical condition (e.g., a brain tumor or vitamin deficiency) can cause depression, so it is important to be evaluated by a psychiatrist or other physician to rule out general medical causes.

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