But millions of Americans suffer from clinical depression, a disease as real as arthritis or hypertension. Depression has specific symptoms and it, too, can kill if left untreated. Depression can appear at any age, so early recognition and treatment is vital. The American Psychiatric Institute estimates that in any given six-month period, depression affects more than nine million people. At least one in five of us will experience a major depressive episode during our lifetime.
Women are almost twice as likely to develop depression as are men.
Depression affects people in all races and social classes, with people between the ages of 18 and 34 having the highest risk. Fortunately, as with many other diseases, medical science has developed effective treatments for depression. It is important to understand that treatment is usually necessary. Most people who suffer from depression have an overall feeling of sadness. They may feel hopeless and helpless and they may be very irritable.