Title: Can Depression Really Kill You?
Headings: Can You Die From Depression?
Can You Die From Depression?
Increased Risk of Suicide
What to Do
Self-Medicating
What to Do
Illnesses Linked to Depression
What to Do
Complications of Depression
Diabetes
Nutritional Deficiencies
Stress-Related Effects
Self-Help Strategies
A Word From Verywell

Content: One of the main ways that depression might lead to death is if the negative symptoms result in a person deciding to take their own life. Depression can make people feel helpless and without hope, causing them to reach the unfortunate conclusion that suicide is the only way to end their misery. Increased Risk of Suicide
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the tenth leading cause of death among all age groups in the year 2017. In 2016, there were nearly 45,000 deaths attributed to suicide in the United States. 1
According to some estimates, depression is present in about half of all suicides. 2
The other half, about 54%, of people who died by suicide did not have a known mental health condition, according to the CDC. Suicide Warning Signs and Risk Factors
What to Do
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor or mental health professional. They can recommend treatment options, such as antidepressants and talk therapy, both of which can relieve symptoms and help you feel better. How to Help Someone Who Is Feeling Suicidal
Self-Medicating
Depression can also lead some individuals to turn to drugs and or alcohol to self-medicate emotional problems. This can occur more often when people are unable to deal or cope with painful feelings of sadness, isolation, anger, hopelessness, and stress.