Depression is a mental disorder that affects individuals of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Symptoms that are generally associated with depression include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, diminished level of interest, dysregulation in appetite and sleep patterns, hopeless and guilty thoughts, and suicidal ideation. It has been estimated that up to 17% of the general population will meet the criteria for major depression at some point in their lives. These numbers are even higher for children and adolescents: Some studies have found that the proportion of children and adolescents who will experience a depressive episode by the end of high school is as high as 25%. The consequences of major depression are not insignificant, producing significant human suffering and even loss of life.

Despite considerable advances ...