Life is full of emotional ups and downs. But when the "down" times are long lasting or interfere with an individual's ability to function, that person may be suffering from a common serious illness -- depression. Clinical depression affects mood, mind, body, and behavior. Research has shown that in the United States more than 19 million people - almost one in ten adults - will experience depression this year, yet nearly two thirds will not get the help they need. Treatment can alleviate the symptoms in over 80 percent of the cases. Yet, because it often goes unrecognized, depression continues.

Women are disproportionately affected by depression, experiencing it at roughly twice the rate of men. Research continues to explore how the illness affects women. At the same time, it is important to increase women's awareness of what is already known about depression, so that they seek early and appropriate treatment.

To grasp the specifics of depression in women, it is essential to understand the illness itself.