Worldwide, about 340 million people have depression. Depression is an illness affecting over 11.6 million Americans, including older persons, in any given year. Of these people, less than one third actually seek treatment for their illness. One in four women and one in ten men can expect to develop depression during their lifetime. Approximately 10 to 15 per cent of depressed people commit suicide.
Depression is one of the most treatable mental illnesses.
The diagnosis of depression is made based on a clinical examination of the patient. There are no lab studies or blood tests that are helpful in the diagnosis of depression. The diagnosis of depression is based on a history of a depressive mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities for a least a two-week period. The prognosis for depression is good. Most patients are best treated with a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy.