The positive flipside to this story might be that there is less stigma attached to depression in the US, making it more likely that those who do need help will actually seek it.
The entitlement to happiness thing is also a likely factor. Or, rather, an assumption that if you aren't happy then there's something wrong with you.
Another factor might be work culture. Mild depression may not really need medication, but if someone is struggling to keep their head above water, they may feel they need it in order not to end up taking time off work, or otherwise fucking up their job.
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