the national legislative body of the U.S., consisting of the Senate, or upper house, and the House of Representatives, or lower house, as a continuous institution. this body as it exists for a period of two years during which it has the same membership: the Ninety-Seventh Congress.
Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from depression. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. More women are affected by depression than men. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide.
1 6.6% of the U.S. adult population will experience major depression within a 12-month period. 2  Rates of diagnosis of depression vary based on states. 3  In 2006-2008, North Dakota had the lowest rate (4.8%) while Mississippi had the highest rate (14.8%), according to Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data.