What percentage of the population is affected by mood disorders?

The statement that 10-20% of the population is affected by mood disorders aligns with current epidemiological data, which indicates that mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, have a significant prevalence in the general population. The estimates from various studies suggest that approximately 15-20% of individuals may experience a mood disorder at some point in their lives, and the lifetime prevalence can vary based on specific conditions and demographics.

Mood disorders are among the most common mental health issues, making this range a realistic representation of their impact. This statistic helps highlight the importance of recognizing and diagnosing mood disorders in clinical practice, especially given their influence on overall health and functionality. In contrast, higher percentages typically reflect more extreme or broader interpretations of mental health conditions, which can encompass anxiety disorders or other mental health challenges not exclusively classified as mood disorders.