More than 17 million Americans suffer from a depressive disorder annually, and one in five will experience an episode of Depression at some time in their lives. It can also be triggered by a stress, or medical illnesses. Other triggers could be change of seasons, childbirth or menstrual cycles. The illness is often passed genetically through families. Some people have only one episode of major Depression, though it is common for the episodes to recur several times or to be long-lasting.
Depression affects people of all ages, races, ethnic groups and social and economic classes.
You or someone you know is likely to be affected by the disorder. Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed as depressed, but the reason for this is not known. One of the biggest problems with Depression is that its seriousness is often not recognized. Some think they can shake it off through willpower. What distinguishes Depression from a passing bad mood are the specific symptoms, as well as its severity and duration.