Abstract
Depression remains a major clinical diagnosis and health detriment in the general American population. The detection and treatment of depression differs among patients of different age sectors and clinical settings. Depression continues to be underdiagnosed and undertreated in American adults. Major depressive disorder is a leading cause of disability in the United States, yet the disorder continues to be underdiagnosed and undertreated for millions of Americans. Undiagnosed depression is a significant source of morbidity in the older adult population and often leads to negative health consequences. Primary care providers, including nurse practitioners present the unique opportunity to screen and treat individuals who meet depression criteria.