The Scope of the Problem
Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, yet they remain widely undertreated. Understanding the scale of these conditions helps underscore why accessible, quality mental health care is so important.
Depression Statistics
- An estimated 21 million adults in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year
- Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization
- Only about 65% of adults with a major depressive episode received treatment
- Depression costs the U.S. economy an estimated $210 billion annually in lost productivity and medical expenses
- The average delay between symptom onset and treatment is 6 to 8 years
Anxiety Statistics
- Anxiety disorders affect over 40 million adults in the United States each year
- They are the most common mental health condition in the country
- Despite being highly treatable, only about 37% of those suffering receive treatment
- People with anxiety disorders are 3 to 5 times more likely to visit the doctor and 6 times more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders
- Anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with depression — nearly half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder
The Treatment Gap
Despite the availability of effective treatments, a significant gap exists between those who need care and those who receive it. Barriers include stigma, cost, lack of access to providers, and long wait times — particularly in states like Oklahoma where mental health provider shortages are acute.
Why These Numbers Matter
Behind every statistic is a real person whose quality of life is affected. At Fortress Health, we are committed to helping close the treatment gap by providing accessible, virtual psychiatric medication management. If you or someone you care about is experiencing depression or anxiety, treatment works — and it starts with reaching out.