| Why this is important: Feeling blue or sad is a normal part of life and usually only lasts a couple of days. However, when an individual has a depressive disorder, it interferes with their daily functioning. Depression can often co–occur with other illnesses such as anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and cancer. Examples of depressive disorders include depression, major depression, dysthymia, and minor depression. There no known single cause for depressive disorders. Instead, it is likely the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in the United States, major depressive disorder is the leading cause of disability for individuals ages 15-44. It affects nearly 14.8 million American adults, or about 6.7 percent of the U.S. adult population. Although many effective treatment options are available, many individuals suffering from depressive disorders never seek treatment.
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