How common is depression?

As many as one in eight teenagers is affected by depression, although it is less common for teenagers than it is for adults. It is more common in females than males. For teenagers it is of special concern as the suicide rate for teens and young adults has increased dramatically over the last 25 years. Between 3 and five percent of the teenage population experiences depression each year, but less than a quarter of those who face this disorder will receive appropriate treatment. It is important to remember that depression can be treated and should not be ignored.