Major Depression: The Impact on Overall Health
In this report,1 Blue Cross Blue Shield Association examines diagnosed major depressive disorder (major depression) using the breadth and depth of data available through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Index.
According to the BCBS Health Index, major depression is the second most impactful condition on overall health for commercially insured Americans, second to hypertension (high blood pressure).
Major depression is a complex condition that has a substantial impact on overall health and wellness. It is crucial to effectively address and manage this condition to improve the health of all Americans.
Key Findings
Major depression has a diagnosis rate of 4.4% in the United States, affecting more than 9 million commercially insured Americans.
Key Findings
Diagnoses of major depression have risen dramatically by 33% since 2013. This rate is rising even faster among millennials (up 47%) and adolescents (up 47% for boys and 65 percent for girls).
Key Findings
People diagnosed with major depression are nearly 30% less healthy on average than those not diagnosed with major depression.
Key Findings
A key reason for the lower overall health of those diagnosed with major depression is that they are likely to also suffer from other health conditions.
Key Findings
People diagnosed with major depression use healthcare services more than other commercially insured Americans. This results in more than two times higher overall healthcare spending ($10,673 compared to $4,283).
ENDNOTES
- This report examines major depression as a clinical diagnosis of a behavioral health condition which impacts everyday functioning and includes the following symptoms: sadness, irritation, fatigue and an overall loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. A diagnosis of major depression, in this case, does not include clinical diagnoses of anxiety, alcohol use disorder, tobacco use or other related health conditions. Major depression has varying symptoms, durations and health impacts for each individual with a diagnosis.
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