Question

In the United States, approximately what percentage of people are estimated to experience depression in their lifetime?

a) 1/6
b) 1/3
c) 7-8%
d) 3%

Answer 1

In the United States, the estimated percentage of people who experience depression in their lifetime is approximately 21 percent option a is correct, based on the prevalence of mood disorders as reported by the National Institute of Mental Health.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the United States, approximately 21 percent of people are estimated to experience depression in their lifetime. This estimate is based on information from the National Institute of Mental Health which states that mood disorders, including major depression and dysthymic disorder, are some of the most common mental disorders in the United States, with a lifetime prevalence of roughly 21 percent.

Depression is more than transient feelings of sadness.

A true depressive episode is a long-term, debilitating illness that requires treatment. It's essential to distinguish between occasional feelings of depression and a clinical major depressive disorder (MDD), which is considerably impactful and has been described as the leading cause of disability.