The Growing Wave of Depression: Understanding the Trends and Solutions
If it feels like more people around you are struggling with depression, you're not imagining it. Depression is becoming more common in the U.S., and it’s affecting younger people at alarming rates. According to recent research, the numbers have been steadily climbing over the last decade — and they're now higher than ever.
The Data
NAMI reports that about 21 million U.S. adults (around 8.4%) had at least one major depressive episode in 2020
Mental Health America (MHA) reports that each year, major depression impacts more than 8% of U.S. adults — roughly 21 million people
According to the World Health Organization, roughly 5.7% of adults nationwide suffer from depression.
For Behavioral Health practices using MHT’s SmarTest AI®, there has been an approximate 6.8% increase in depression scores from 2024 to 2025.
What’s Driving the Increase in Depression?
There’s no one cause behind it — instead, a combination of several different factors:
Social media plays a big role. Constant scrolling and comparing yourself to others can negatively impact your self-esteem.
We’re more isolated than ever before. People are spending more time interacting virtually and less time face-to-face.
Life stressors, such as finances and work-related stress can be contributing factors.
Behavioral health care is not as accessible for everyone. Many people don’t seek help due to cost or lack of resources.
On the bright side, the rise in depression may reflect that the conversation around mental health is becoming more normalized in today’s society. People feel more comfortable admitting that they’re struggling with mental health concerns.
So, What Can Be Done?
This isn’t something we can ignore — untreated depression can lead to more serious consequences.
Early intervention & proactive screening
Continue to normalize talking about mental health
Learn about different mental health resources, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Help make behavioral health care more accessible
Depression is something that a lot of people are dealing with right now, and that’s okay to talk about. The good news is that help is out there, and things can get better. So, if you or someone you know if struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out — you are NOT alone.
Here’s How MHT’s SmarTest AI® Solution Can Help:
SmarTest AI® integrates with your EMR
When a patient makes an appointment, SmarTest AI® receives that information (including the appointment type, provider, and patient information, etc.)
Based on customized screening parameters set by the medical director, SmarTest AI® determines which assessments the patient should receive prior to the appointment.
Assessments are sent by text, email, or clinic device; results are automatically uploaded to the patient’s chart with abnormal results flagged.
Send designated staff members real-time alerts and redirect patients upon assessment completion to a URL of your choice.
If a patient qualifies, SmarTest AI® asks if they would like to be contacted by a behavioral health specialist. With patient consent, that referral is automated to the appropriate level of care.
MHT facilitates introductions to nationally available behavioral health partners. Your practice determines which partner you would like to refer to.
We offer Risk-Free Proof of Concept trials to qualified healthcare providers. Visit our website or contact us to learn more.
Resources:
1. https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/depression/
2. https://mhanational.org/conditions/depression/
3. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression