What does this measure?
The share of adults who report they have ever been told they have a depressive disorder, including depression, major depression or minor depression.
Why is this important?
Depression significantly impacts daily life, affecting emotional, behavioral, and physical well-being. For individuals, it can interfere with work, relationships, and overall quality of life and cause difficulties in managing everyday tasks and responsibilities. Additionally, depression can contribute to social isolation and increased risk of substance abuse. For communities, high rates of depression can lead to decreased productivity at work and school, strained relationships, and increased healthcare costs.
How does our county compare?
In 2020-22, the years that data was available, 19% of Lancaster County residents 18 and over were diagnosed with depression, down 2 percentage points from 2017-19. The state rate was similar, at 20% in 2020-22, unchanged from 2017-19.
The rate of depression diagnosis in 2020-22 in Lancaster was tied with Chester County for the lowest rate amongst neighboring counties, below Cumberland (20%), Berks (22%), York (24%), and Dauphin (26%).
Notes about the data
These data were provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The Department specifically disclaims responsibility for any analyses, interpretations, or conclusions.
| 2011-13 | 2014-16 | 2017-19 | 2020-22 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 18% | 19% | 20% | 20% |
| Lancaster County | 19% | 16% | 21% | 19% |
| Chester County | 16% | 17% | 18% | 19% |
| Dauphin, Lebanon | 17% | 19% | 20% | 26% |
| Berks, Schuylkill | 19% | 22% | 19% | 22% |
| Cumberland, Perry | 19% | 18% | 21% | 20% |
| York County | 20% | 20% | 24% | 24% |
