Depression is a global challenge that affects individuals across different borders and cultures. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that about 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making it one of the leading causes of disability and suicide.
In the United States, millions of adults experience serious thoughts of suicide, with the highest rate among individuals being those with multiracial backgrounds. Data from WHO also revealed that approximately 4.84% of adults have reported experiencing such thoughts, totaling to more than 12.1 million individuals.
More than 10% of the youth population in the U.S. reportedly experience depression, which takes a toll on their lives. It severely impairs their ability to perform day-to-day functions at school, at work, at home and at social engagements.
According to the data from Mental Health America (MHA), 16.39% of young individuals aged 12 to 17 have reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode (MDE) within the past year. Additionally, 11.5% of these young people, or more than 2.7 million of them, have reported experiencing severe major depression.
What Is Depression?
Depressive disorder, also known as depression, is a common and serious medical illness characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It can lead to a variety of emotional, physical and social problems.
Individuals battling depression often struggle with basic tasks, experience a decreased quality of life and face increased risk factors for other health conditions including substance abuse, heart disease and diabetes.
Depression affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. It can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences if left untreated. It contributes to nearly 40,000 suicides in the United States each year.
Signs and Symptoms Associated with Depression
- Persistent Sadness: A constant feeling of unhappiness and hopelessness
- Loss of Interest or Pleasure: A…
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