This study compares medical costs and out-of-pocket expenses for adults with depression and other major chronic conditions.  The study finds that individuals with depression have roughly the same out-of-pocket expenses as do individuals with major chronic disorders but also incur 11.8 percent less total medical expenditures. The authors note that both chronic diseases and depression have high out-of-pocket costs but that individuals with depression tend to have lower income levels. 

Lurie, I. Z., Manheim, L.M. & Dunlop, D. D. (2009). Differences in medical care expenditures for adults with depression compared to adults with major chronic conditions. Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics, 12(2): 87-95. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19567934 

Authors: Ithai Z. Lurie, L. M. Manheim and D.D. Dunlop