Share this booklet with a family member or close friend. It can help them to better understand your depression and its treatment. The information in this booklet is based on evaluation of research studies. Other treatments for depression that are available, while effective for some people, have not been carefully studied. Major depressive disorder often referred to as depression is a common illness that can affect anyone.
Depression affects twice as many women as men.
It is more than being sad or feeling grief after a loss. Other general medical illnesses. Drugs or alcohol. Other psychiatric conditions. In some people, depression occurs even when life is going well.