Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to men, perhaps in part due to hormonal changes triggered by puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

The elderly are also at a higher risk because of physical illness or emotional loneliness and thoughts of old age and dying.

Although men have a lower risk for depression, they are less likely to seek help. Their depression may come in the form of anger, hostility or substance abuse such as alcohol or drugs. Substance abuse may actually worsen the condition of the depression. Depressed men are also four times as vulnerable to suicide attempts than women.