About Depression
Depression impacts ~8.3% of U.S. adults yearly (~21M people, per NIMH 2022-2025 stats), with women twice as likely as men. Symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest (anhedonia), changes in sleep/appetite, fatigue, guilt, concentration issues, or suicidal thoughts lasting 2+ weeks.
Causes
It’s caused by brain chemistry imbalances, genetics, trauma, medical conditions, or life events.
Treatment
Effective treatments: Therapy (CBT/interpersonal), antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs), exercise, light therapy, or ECT for severe cases. It’s highly treatable—about 80-90% improve with help. Call 988 if in crisis.
