Depression in the US Population During the Time Periods Surrounding the Great Recession

Abstract

The time periods surrounding the recent economic recession were accompanied by a significant and sustained increase in major depression prevalence in the US population. It is plausible that the recession, given its strong, persistent, and negative effects on employment, job and housing security, and stock investments, contributed to the sustained increase in prevalence of major depression in the US population, but other factors associated with the recession time period could have played a role. The impact of the economic downturn on depression prevalence should be considered when formulating future policies and programs to promote and maintain the health of the US population.