According to the National Institute of Mental Health, major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S. For some patient’s major depression can produce severe impairments that can interfere with or limit one’s ability to carry out major life activities. Major depression should be considered in the following patients:
- A two week or longer period when a patient experiences a depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities, and experiences symptoms of insomnia, poor appetite, lethargy, concentration, or sense of self-worth.
Currently there are an estimated 21.0 million adults in the U.S. who has had at least one major depressive episode. This represents 8.4% of all U.S. adults. Prevalence of major depressive episode is highest among adult females when compared to males. Prevalence is highest among patients 18-25 years of age.