Depression is a chronic illness that exacts a significant toll on America's health and productivity.  It affects more than 21 million American children and adults annually and is the leading cause of disability in the United States for individuals ages 15 to 44. (MHA)

This recently released survey compared public attitudes toward mental illness with a similar survey done ten years ago. The public's understanding and acceptance of mental health and other behavioral health issues has improved, with more people, for example, viewing depression as a health problem rather than a personal weakness. However, public acceptance of depression and other mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, alcohol and drug abuse and suicide still lag behind that of other health issues such as diabetes and cancer. (6/2007)