Depression Indication Depression is a disorder marked by sadness or hopelessness, loss of energy or pleasure, difficulty concentrating, and in some cases, suicidal feelings. It is estimated that 1 in 8 Americans will require treatment for depression at some time in their lives.
Depression commonly occurs in the late twenties, and is twice as common in women as in men.
Risk factors for depression include a family history of depression, lack of social support, stressful life events, and certain medical illnesses. Everyone feels sad or blue from time to time, particularly in response to disappointment or loss. However, these temporary feelings are different from the prolonged depressed mood and loss of interest that afflict people suffering from Major Depression. As is the case for many psychiatric conditions, the causes of depression are not fully understood. There is substantial evidence that genetics play a role, although it is unclear exactly how depression is inherited.