Uncovering Mood Disorders

Nearly 10 percent of Americans suffer from depression.

/content/dam/betcom/images/2012/07/Politics/071112-politics-rep-jesse-jackson-jr.jpg
/content/dam/betcom/images/2012/07/Health/071212-health-depression-sadness-illness-abuse.jpg
Worries - The economy tops the list of things Americans are concerned about, with 68 percent saying they worry a "great deal" about federal spending and the budget deficit, according to a Gallup poll published on March 26. They're followed by the availability and affordability of health care (61 percent), gas prices (55 percent) and unemployment (51 percent).  (Photo: Getty Images/STOCK)/content/dam/betcom/images/2011/07/National/072111-health-depression-1.JPG

Next Gallery

12 Powerful Quotes from Black Women Athletes to Inspire Greatness

12 Photos

1 / 9

The Many Faces of Depression - Following weeks of speculation, Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.'s leave of absence became slightly more clear when his camp announced on Wednesday the 47-year-old was being treated for an unspecified mood disorder. Feelings of hopelessness, irritability, worthlessness and guilt can be experienced by anyone on a typical day, but for millions of Americans diagnosed with a mood disorder, these feelings can be both mentally and emotionally crippling and stop them from living healthy and productive lives. As many as 9.1 percent of the United States adult population suffer from depression, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in its most recent findings. BET.com takes a look at the ailment and lists options for getting help. – Britt Middleton (Photo: REUTERS/Mitch Dumke)

ADVERTISEMENT