Depression Trends and Facts

Many of the participants in Peer Support Solutions meetings report intense feelings of isolation and loneliness, a common sign of depression. After a few sessions, many report lessening of this debilitating aspect of this problem. One of the things commonly talked about in support group meetings, is the increasing number of individuals who are suffering with depression.

In fact, recent research indicates that the rate at which depression strikes is on the rise. Today about 6 to 7% of the U.S. adult population suffers from depression at any one point in time. This rate is ten times more than it was in 1960.

Another interesting trend is that people are first experiencing depression at a younger average age. In 1960 the average age of a first episode was 29.5 years. Today, it is 14.5 years.

Current estimates are that one out of five people will have at least one major depressive episode in their lives. The World Health Organization projects that by 2020, depression will globally be the 2nd biggest healthcare problem (after heart disease) based on its economic and social impact.

Depression has become one of the costliest worker healthcare problems. It accounts for five times more absences than non-depression related problems. In fact, a new term has been coined to describe the impact of depression on productivity: “presenteeism”. Presenteeism refers to employees who are “on” the job in body, but not spirit. These employees contribute 2.3 days less effort per month than those who are not depressed.

Research shows that peer support for depression can reduce symptoms and use of medical services. Our platform allows individuals to easily access the understanding and care of a peer support group to help them move forward and regain their energy.