Depression Rates Are Higher Than Ever—Experts Say These 5 Things Need to Change

Fast Facts

• A recent Gallup poll reported that 29% of Americans have been diagnosed with depression at least once in their lifetime.
• Young people and women are seeing higher depression diagnoses than other demographics.
• Experts cite the issue with the accessibility of mental health resources, noting that big changes within accessibility need to change in order for depression rates to decline.

According to the latest findings from Gallup, depression rates have reached an all-time high in the United States, revealing a concerning trend. The recent Gallup poll shows that 29% of Americans have received a depression diagnosis at least once in their lifetime. This represents a significant increase of almost 10 percentage points since 2015, making it the highest recorded rate in Gallup’s data history.

Of particular concern is the impact of depression on specific demographic groups. The data suggests that younger individuals aged 18 to 29 (34.3%) and those between 30 to 44 (34.9%) experience higher depression rates than those older than 44. Additionally, women are disproportionately affected, with more than one-third (36.7%) reporting having experienced depression at some point in their lifetime.

Experts believe that the rise in depression rates can be attributed, at least in part, to societal factors such as isolation and loneliness. Elisabeth Gulotta, a licensed mental health counselor and founder of NYC Therapeutic Wellness, highlights that modern society’s increasing isolation and disconnection play a significant role in contributing to these alarming statistics. She emphasizes that human connection and meaningful relationships are crucial for mental well-being, and the lack thereof may be exacerbating the problem.

To address the growing mental health challenges, it is essential to promote a more connected and supportive society. This could involve encouraging meaningful social interactions, fostering a sense of community, and increasing awareness about mental health issues. By working together, we can create a healthier and more empathetic environment for everyone, which may ultimately help reduce depression rates and improve overall well-being.

Why Are People More Depressed Now?

While the pandemic undoubtedly contributed to the increase in depression rates, mental health experts have identified several other significant factors at play, including rising loneliness and the impact of social media.

According to Mark Debus, a licensed clinical social worker and behavioral health clinical manager at Sedgwick, genetics, biochemistry, environmental stressors, and individual personality differences also play roles in the development of depression.

Certain vocations can also be associated with higher depression rates. Professions that entail regular exposure to daily trauma or repetitive traumas, such as first responders, law enforcement, medical staff, teachers, and social workers, may experience more significant effects on their mental health.

The early signs of depression often emerge in a person’s mid-twenties, as highlighted by Laura Erickson-Schroth, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer for The Jed Foundation. Unfortunately, mental health conditions frequently go undiagnosed for years due to stigma, lack of access to care, and other barriers.

Dr. Erickson-Schroth also emphasized that attributing the higher depression rates solely to a growing openness to discuss mental health would be a mistake. There are other critical factors to consider, such as social isolation, unmet essential needs, and limited access to mental healthcare, which contribute significantly to people’s struggles.

Elisabeth Gulotta, a mental health expert, described the current situation as “relational poverty.” The combination of the COVID pandemic and the influence of technology has eroded meaningful connections, leading to increased feelings of isolation and separation. Despite the apparent presence of technology and social media, society remains disconnected at a fundamental level, impacting overall mental health.

Addressing the rising depression rates requires a comprehensive approach that considers various contributing factors. Improving access to mental healthcare, combating social isolation, and fostering meaningful connections are all essential steps toward creating a more mentally healthy and supportive society. By recognizing and addressing these complex issues, we can work together to improve mental well-being and build a more resilient community.

Health Disparities and Depression Rates

According to Ling Lam, a lecturer at Santa Clara University’s School of Education and Counseling Psychology, healthcare disparities and barriers to access can significantly increase the risk of depression. Consequently, these factors may also contribute to the current rise in depression rates.

Dr. Erickson-Schroth emphasized that youth of color are facing particularly challenging times, with American Indian/Alaska Native youth having the highest rates of suicide among all racial or ethnic groups, and the suicide rate for Black youth having more than doubled over the past decade.

To address these alarming trends, it is essential for the country to focus on systemic factors that influence these numbers. One crucial step is to work towards reducing racial discrimination and violence while simultaneously improving access to culturally competent mental healthcare. By creating a more inclusive and supportive environment, individuals from all backgrounds will feel safer and more comfortable reaching out for help when they need it.

Addressing the root causes of healthcare disparities and working to provide equitable access to mental health services will be key to reducing the impact of depression on vulnerable populations. This requires a collaborative effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to create positive change and promote mental well-being for all.

How Can We Lower Depression Rates in the U.S.?

Addressing the rising trend of depression requires collective efforts at the societal level. Experts emphasize the significance of enhancing social connections and ensuring access to essential needs as vital steps in this endeavor.

According to Dr. Erickson-Schroth, improving people’s lives is the most crucial tool in reducing depression rates. This can be achieved by fostering a sense of community and promoting meaningful social connections. When individuals feel supported and connected, it can significantly mitigate feelings of isolation and loneliness, contributing to better mental well-being.

Furthermore, ensuring access to essential needs, such as adequate healthcare, stable housing, nutritious food, and education, is critical in addressing the root causes of depression. When these fundamental needs are met, individuals are better equipped to cope with life stressors and are less vulnerable to mental health challenges.

Another essential aspect is identifying and addressing sources of stress in society. By implementing measures to reduce stressors related to work, education, finances, and other aspects of life, we can create a more supportive environment that fosters mental resilience.

Taking a closer look, experts suggest several strategies to reduce rising depression rates in the United States.

Nurture Social Connection

At the forefront of reducing the increasing depression rates lies the significance of nurturing social connections. Dr. Erickson-Schroth highlighted the alarming “epidemic of loneliness” in the U.S., as the amount of time spent in person with friends has declined by 70% over the past two decades, particularly affecting individuals aged 15 to 24.

As social beings, humans thrive on connections, and research confirms that social isolation and loneliness pose significant risks to both mental and physical health. These factors can contribute to a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicide, and even earlier mortality.

Interestingly, living in urban settings may offer more opportunities for social connections. A study revealed that people living in larger cities tend to have more contacts across various functions, providing increased chances for socialization, which could serve as a protective factor against depression.

Dr. Erickson-Schroth emphasizes the critical role of connection in emotional well-being. When individuals maintain strong ties with friends, family, and their community, they are less likely to face challenges with their mental health. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships can provide a sense of support, belonging, and understanding that can significantly enhance mental well-being.

In summary, fostering social connections is a key strategy in combating the rising rates of depression. Encouraging face-to-face interactions, promoting community engagement, and creating a sense of belonging can go a long way in improving mental health outcomes for individuals of all ages. As a society, it is essential to recognize the value of human connection and work towards creating environments that facilitate meaningful relationships for everyone.

Meet Essential Needs

Dr. Erickson-Schroth emphasized the importance of addressing rising depression rates by ensuring that everyone’s fundamental needs are met.

According to her, young people are experiencing an unprecedented level of stress, with nearly three out of five college students facing essential needs insecurity. This includes challenges related to unstable housing, lack of access to affordable healthcare, and insufficient food, all of which can significantly impact mental well-being.

Additionally, she noted that debt and financial stress are closely associated with depression, and during financial crises, there is an increase in suicides. Unfortunately, financial constraints often serve as a significant deterrent preventing people from seeking mental health support.

To effectively combat these issues, it is essential for the country to prioritize meeting the basic needs of all individuals. This may involve implementing policies and programs that ensure access to affordable healthcare, stable housing, and adequate resources to combat food insecurity. Additionally, providing financial support and resources to those in need can help alleviate the stress associated with economic challenges.

Creating a more supportive environment for mental health care is also crucial. By reducing financial barriers to accessing mental health services and promoting the importance of seeking help without stigma, individuals may feel more encouraged to seek the support they need.

In conclusion, addressing the rising depression rates requires a comprehensive approach that tackles essential needs insecurity, and financial stress. By prioritizing the well-being of individuals and providing necessary support, we can work towards creating a more resilient and mentally healthy society.

Keep Dialogue Open

Despite significant progress in openly discussing depression and other mental health conditions in the United States, there is still a need for further efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with them.

Engaging in open conversations about mental health enhances connectivity within the mental health community, fostering a supportive environment.

When people are aware of the prevalence of depression, they are less likely to feel isolated and alone. Moreover, understanding that depression is a treatable condition helps dispel misconceptions and provides hope for those affected.

Gulotta encourages the continued cultivation of dialogue surrounding mental health, with the aim of normalizing and destigmatizing it. Additionally, making mental health services more accessible will be instrumental in supporting those in need.

Foster Collaboration Among Healthcare Professionals

Dr. Lam emphasized the significance of collaboration between healthcare providers and mental health professionals for individuals diagnosed with depression, as they often require multiple medications and interventions.

Adopting such a collaborative approach not only has the potential to reduce depression rates but also leads to improved patient health, enhanced quality of care, and increased satisfaction.

Implementing a collaborative care model for managing depressive disorders on a broader scale can result in more effective routine screening and early diagnosis, leading to timely treatment. Research has demonstrated that outcomes for depression with a collaborative care model are superior to those achieved with primary care treatment alone.

Make Mental Healthcare More Accessible

The primary obstacle preventing many individuals from receiving the mental healthcare they require is the lack of access. Some people lack health insurance coverage to pay for treatment, while others cannot afford the associated fees. Furthermore, certain regions in the country face a shortage of mental health professionals and services, making it challenging for people to access care, as explained by Debus.

Gulotta pointed out that there is still a knowledge gap, especially among family members who may not know how to navigate mental health systems and seek support for their loved ones. Various other factors also contribute to limited access, such as lack of transportation or childcare, language barriers, logistical difficulties, and stigma-related beliefs. Long waiting times for treatment, beliefs emphasizing self-sufficiency, and concerns about privacy can further hinder access to care.

Experts believe that increasing the availability of mental healthcare in the U.S. could lead to a decline in depression rates. However, the current shortage of mental health professionals makes it more challenging for individuals to find and receive adequate care.

Dr. Lam emphasized the need for societal efforts to address these challenges. This includes increasing mental health resources, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, ensuring equitable access to care, promoting mental health education to encourage proactive addressing of mental health concerns, and tackling issues like racism, sexism, and economic disparity, as chronic stress exacerbates the risk of depression. By taking these steps, the barriers to mental healthcare can be reduced, leading to improved mental health outcomes for individuals across the nation.