Are you sad, low and unable to bounce back? Do you think you might be experiencing depression? Are you feeling lonely and inadequate?
If so, you are far from alone.
Depression Is a Big Problem in the USA.
Depression in the United States is very common and on the rise. In fact, you may be experiencing or witnessing depression in others more routinely than you realize.
Scientific studies in recent decades reveal that depression befalls millions in America annually. We know, too, that we don’t recognize its prevalence at times because depression often manifests differently among those of various genders and ages. Meanwhile, depression counseling is on the rise.
For instance:
- Do you interact with men who are always irritable, angry, prone to recklessness or substance abuse?
- Do you notice women who are typically consumed with guilt, grief, sadness, worthlessness, and loneliness?
- Do you interact with youth who have separation anxiety, eating disorders, or are “troublemakers”?
- Are you observe senior citizens who seem inordinately focused on death or illness?
All of these behaviors are lesser-known indicators of depression that show up quite commonly. It is important to be aware of them in yourself and your friends and loved ones for the sake of your and their health and futures.
How Many Americans Suffer from Depression?
Depression is the most common psychological disorder in the USA. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) paints a serious picture of depression in the United States. According to their research, between 5 and 10% of Americans are suffering with depression. This means around 15 to 30 million people are trying to navigate the symptoms of such a pervasive condition.
This also means that it’s important to notice and understand what so many of us are dealing with. In addition, this explains why so many mental health professionals offer depression counseling to alleviate the suffering of their patients.
Here’s some more sobering statistics:
- Depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for ages 15 to 44.3.
- Major Depressive Disorder affects more than 16.1 million American adults over 18 years of age (about 6.7% of the U.S. population) each year.
- Young adults 18 to 29 years old are three times more likely to get depressed.
- The average age at onset of depression is just over 32 years old.
- The prevalence of major depressive episodes is higher among adult females (8.7%) compared to males (5.3%).
- The pervasiveness of adults with a major depressive episode is highest among individuals aged 18-25 (13.1%).
- The prevalence of major depressive episode is highest among adults reporting two or more races/ethnicities (11.3%).
Unfortunately, depression is often overlooked and not detected by many health care professionals. Therefore, many people are missing the opportunity to utilize helpful psychiatric medicine and depression counseling.
Research Studies Demonstrate that Depression Can Afflict Anyone.
Your own personal struggles and your observations of loved one or the general public may make this clear to you. Although depression impacts those of any age, gender, background, faith and financial status, there are groups for whom depression is more common.
As stated above, women are more commonly diagnosed with depression while many men are under-diagnosed with this psychological issue. In addition, depression is more likely to affect people who are impoverished, unemployed and survivors of trauma or tragedy.
I’m here to help. Please call me soon (805-448-5053) for a consultation and learn more about my services here: Depression Counseling
