Costs of Depression
People with diagnosed depression spent more money in different types of health categories than in mental health care services. Although participants spent a lot more money in other health care categories, they spent less that 1% in specialty mental health care.
With this research it was also theorized that the higher cost for health services can be prevent a patient from receiving necessary care. This is especially true with older people who prefer not to seek help if they notice a slight stigma associated with depression. An obstacle to receiving this mental health care can also come from the higher Medicare costs.
Researchers suggest that improving mental health care for this population of people who may not have the funds available can possibly decrease overall medical costs.
References and Resources:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2009/health-care-costs-much-higher-for-older-adults-with-depression-plus-other-medical-conditions.shtml