Primer on Depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a serious, debilitating, life-shortening illness that affects many persons of all ages and backgrounds. The point prevalence of MDD is high (2.3–3.2% in men; 4.5–9.3% in women) and the lifetime risk for MDD is 7% to 12% for men and 20% to 25% for women. MDD is a disabling disorder that costs the United States over $200 billion per year in direct and indirect costs. Depression also has detrimental effects on all aspects of social functioning (e.g., self-care, social role, and family life, including household, marital, kinship, and parental roles). While there have been several treatments that are efficacious, many individuals suffering from depression experience lifelong challenges due to the often chronic and episodic nature of the disease. Identifying strategies to find the right treatments for the right patients is critical.