9 things everyone should know about depression (even if you're not depressed)
It can affect anyone, aggravate pain, and worsen heart disease. But that’s not all.
Jan, 2026
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Despite increased awareness in recent years, depression remains difficult to talk about for many people. The mood disorder, which causes persistent sadness and loss of interest, is common and can affect anyone at any age. In fact, about 18 percent of United States adults report being diagnosed at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Depression shouldn’t be something you have to silently struggle with. Here’s what you should know about its genetic component, the difference between depression and sadness, how to best seek treatment, and more.
Written byEdiva Zanker.
Medically reviewed byJoanne Perron, MD.
Sources: Lee B + 15
- Lee B, Wang Y, Carlson SA, et al. National, State-Level, and County-Level Prevalence Estimates of Adults Aged ≥18 Years Self-Reporting a Lifetime Diagnosis of Depression — United States, 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:644–650.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Center for Health Statistics. Depression. Reviewed November 6, 2023.
- Chand SP, Arif H. Depression. StatPearls Publishing. January 2023.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Last reviewed September 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vital Signs: Adverse Childhood Experiences. Updated August 23, 2021.
- Mayo Clinic. Depression (major depressive disorder). October 14, 2022.
- Frank P, Batty GD, Pentti J, et al. Association Between Depression and Physical Conditions Requiring Hospitalization. JAMA Psychiatry. 2023;80(7):690–699.
- Mayo Clinic. Pain and depression: Is there a link? April 3, 2019.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes: Diabetes and Mental Health. Reviewed May 15, 2023.
- American Heart Association. How Does Depression Affect the Heart? Reviewed June 22, 2021.
- You Matter: 988 Lifeline. Talking About Depression. Accessed January 12, 2024.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Depression. Updated April 4, 2023.
- American Psychological Association. Overcoming depression: How psychologists help with depressive disorders. Updated March 7, 2023.
- American Psychological Association. Depression. Accessed January 12, 2024.
- Mayo Clinic. Depression: Supporting a family member or friend. April 5, 2023.
- National Health Service (NHS UK). How to help someone with depression. Reviewed August 18, 2022.
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