The Consequences of Depression

Abstract

This chapter details how depression affects relationships, careers, and health. It is important to consider the evidence that depression harms relationships, careers, and health and to explore the reasons why depression may create such harms. Depression is also often quite commonly accompanied by other mental health problems, such as substance problems or difficulties with anxiety, which can compound depression’s harms. Patterns of mental health comorbidity and possible explanations for why depression co-occurs with other mental health problems are also outlined. Although the harmful consequences of depression are well established, little research considers whether depression ever has positive consequences. Preliminary evidence that depression could have positive consequences for some individuals is considered.