Depression Rates Are Rising, But There’s Hope in New Treatments

As a psychiatrist, I’ve been seeing a troubling trend: depression rates are rising across the U.S., especially among communities of color. Recent data show that 34% of Black adults and nearly one in three Hispanic adults have now been diagnosed with depression — rates that have surpassed those of White adults for the first time.

Spravato; Image Source: NBC News

While this reality is concerning, there are also reasons for hope. New and innovative treatments like Spravato® (esketamine) are changing what’s possible for those who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressants.

In recent clinical studies, 22.5% of patients taking Spravato achieved remission within just 4 weeks, compared to only 7.6% on placebo — and real-world data show sustained improvements in mood and functioning over time.

If you or someone you know has been struggling with depression that hasn’t improved with medication, know that you’re not alone — and that new, evidence-based options exist.

Visit our Services page to learn more about Spravato and other treatments for depression.