An overview of depressive illness

Depression is the ailment that most commonly affects a person's temper and habitually affects a considerable portion of the population, causing suffering and significant limitations both to those affected by it and to their families, as well as being the main cause of suicides. It currently represents one of the greatest problems facing the public health services. Despite its importance, it still continues to receive little recognition or treatment, in spite of its clinical conceptualisation having occurred scientifically in the last century; and those who suffer from it are often victims of the prejudice and ignorance that surrounds it. A greater understanding of depression is, therefore, fundamental since it is only through na adequate knowledge of the clinical picture that correct treatment can be provided. This review is intended to contribute by means of clinical data that can collaborate with information and understanding in relation to this illness. Keywords: depression, clinical characteristics.