Ask the Expert: Is Depression Normal?

Question: Is depression a normal part of aging?

 

Lynn Northrop, PhD, a lead clinical psychologist affiliated with Sharp, responds:

 

Dr. Lynn Northrop

People often ask whether depression is a normal part of aging and I think that it’s very important to understand that depression is not a normal part of aging. Depression is not any more common among older adults than it is among adults of any age. About 1 in 10 people in America are depressed at any given time. About one in five will be depressed at some point in their lifetime. And that’s true whether you’re talking about an 18-year-old or a 100-year-old.

Listen to audio podcasts featuring Dr. Northrop.

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When the Road Gets Bumpy, July 30
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Last Updated: July 1, 2009