Recognizing the Prevalence of Depression in the U.S.

Depression is a widespread issue in the United States. More than 25% of U.S. adults report being diagnosed with the condition at some point in their lives. Annually, over 8% of adults may experience a major depressive episode. Each year, the country sees more than half a million hospitalizations related to depressive disorders.

Recently, Representative Thomas Kean Jr., a Republican from New Jersey, shared that he was hospitalized due to depression. He expressed understanding of how long depression had affected his life. In a speech on the House floor in Washington, Kean, 57, disclosed his struggle but did not provide treatment details.

The usual age for the onset of depression is young adulthood, though some experience it for the first time in middle age or later. This was highlighted by Dr. Mark Rapaport, president of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Rapaport emphasized the importance of speaking out about depression, a treatable brain disorder, to raise awareness.

“I’m grateful that the congressperson is able to be forthcoming because this is a treatable disease of the brain, and we need people to know that,” Dr. Rapaport said.

Various reasons might lead to hospitalization for depression. One common reason is if the person has thoughts of suicide or self-harm. A safe environment might be necessary for those facing severe depression symptoms.