Medical imaging looks inside depression

Worldwide, depression affects 121 million people. It is the most common psychiatric disorder, and as the principal antecedent to suicide, depression can even be deadly. The World Health Organization reports that depression is the leading cause of disability and the fourth leading cause of global disease burden. Although we are just beginning to comprehend the deleterious effects of this disorder, scientists are finding exciting and innovative ways to use technological advances in imaging to peer inside the brain and obtain a more refined understanding of depression. Research promises earlier diagnoses, more effective treatments and ultimately better prognoses.