Depression: Your Opinions on the Causes, Prescription Medication, and Who Has a Right To Know

A recent morefocus survey asked people their opinions about depression. Over 1200 people reported their feelings about the causes of and treatments for depression, as well as their views on the appropriate level of employer involvement with their depression. Of the respondents, 30 percent have suffered from the symptoms of depression without a clinical diagnosis, while 6 percent are unsure if they suffer from depression despite depressive symptoms. 

While few people attribute their depression solely to genetics, most of the respondents that experienced depression symptoms agreed at that family genetics, daily stress, major life events, and psychological and physical conditions all influenced their depressed state.

While most people didn't think companies should be allowed to screen their employees for depression, they did think that companies have an obligation to help their employees get treatment. Of the 721 people that were against company screening, 64 percent did think that companies should become involved in the treatment process at some level.

Eight percent of respondents have been professionally diagnosed with depression, yet have not sought out any kind of treatment for it. Of those who have not been professionally diagnosed, 19 percent still did, in fact, try a method of treatment.

Ultimately, morefocus' survey found that respondents tended to characterize depression as a private condition that not only stems from genetic, social, and psychological factors but also is not necessarily cured through prescription medication.