Executive Summary
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability in the U.S., impacting over 21 million adults and contributing to billions in healthcare costs annually.
This white paper, based on peer-reviewed research led by Christie Teigland, Ph.D., examines how social risk factors influence hospitalization rates and healthcare spending for individuals with MDD.
Drawing on real-world data from nearly 2 million patients across commercial and Medicaid populations, the study reveals significant disparities linked to social and economic conditions. The findings highlight the importance of integrating social drivers of health (SDOH) into the understanding, treatment, and funding of care for individuals with serious mental illness.
