The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimated, in 1999, that
depression affects more than 19 million American
adults, placing the
disease as the most common serious brain disease in America. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2002 that
depression affects 121 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. This paper examines common myths surrounding depression, signs and symptoms, and treatment for this disorder. The author of the paper also imparts first-hand knowledge on the subject, being a sufferer of depression.