There are several different types of depressive disorders,
though all share many of the same symptoms. Some are more severe
and long lasting. Some people may have only one depressive
episode in their lives, while others may have recurring or
constant depression unless they are successfully treated. The
main types of depressive disorder are: Major Depressive Disorder
Approximately About 15 million American adults—about 7 percent
of the population—will experience major depression each year. It
is the leading cause of disability in the United States among
people aged ages 15 to 44. Major depression is marked by
persistent sadness, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, trouble
concentrating, sleep and appetite problems and lack of interest
in the things a person used to find pleasurable. To be
classified as suffering a major depression, a person must have
several symptoms and they must occur on most days for at least
two weeks. While major depressive disorder can manifest at any
age, the average age of onset is 32