Major depression is a common and serious medical illness affecting more than 13 million Americans, or approximately 66 percent of the population in a given year Unlike the normal ups and downs of everyday life, Major Depression is persistent and can significantly interfere with an individual's thoughts, behavior, mood, and even physical health Mental illness is the leading cause of disability in the US often impairing social, academic and work functioning and causing significant emotional distress Depression is the most predominant illness within the mental health arena