According to the National Institute for Mental Health, the average age for depression to start is age 32, although depression is diagnosed in people of all ages – from childhood to old age. Research suggests that individuals between the ages of 30 and 44 are most likely to suffer depression, although the risk remains high until age 60, when far fewer cases of depression are reported.
High instances of age-related depression in young and middle-aged adults could be related to the financial strains associated with saving for personal retirement, financing a child’s college education and caring for elderly parents. These circumstances can be especially stressful and burdensome to otherwise healthy relationships, which can lead to further depression.
Young Children and Teenagers
Despite the higher likelihood of depression in young and middle-aged adults, it is not at all uncommon for children, teenagers and senior citizens to experience depression. In fact, depression diagnosed during childhood or adolescence is more likely to continue into adulthood with repeat episodes or even the diagnosis of other, more severe mental disorders.
Unfortunately, depression in children and teens often goes undiagnosed, as the symptoms may resemble those associated with the normal stages of emotional and mental growth. However, if a child becomes suddenly despondent, shy, worried, irritated, angry, or antisocial, or if he or she suddenly develops a chronic negative behavior, such as lying, substance abuse or an eating disorder, these symptoms may signal an underlying depressive mental health condition.
Senior Citizens
Older adults experience natural mood changes, although depression symptoms are not some of them. Experts believe that seniors may be less likely to experience depression due to less stress in retirement, fewer financial responsibilities and a sense of satisfaction as children become adults with families of their own.
However, other factors, such as an increase in physical health conditions, the loss of a spouse, a shorter life expectancy or few close family members can lead to the onset of major or minor depressive disorder. Furthermore, many of the physical health conditions frequently associated with depression, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are more common in older adults. If those diseases or other illnesses require the use of prescription medications, depression symptoms may be a side effect.
Despite lower rates of both depression and suicide in men, males over the age of 85 have the highest suicide rates in the U.S. Although the exact cause for this is unknown, some experts believe that older men may be less likely to discuss their depression with doctors or loved ones, which may prevent them from getting the help they need to improve.
If you have depression, you may want to get therapy. Counseling may help lessen your depression.
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