Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. WHO fact sheet on depression , providing information on prevalence, symptoms , prevention and contributing factors, diagnosis and treatment, and WHO's work in the area. An individual with major depression , or major depressive disorder, feels a profound and constant sense of hopelessness and despair. Major depression is marked by a combination of symptoms that ... What is depression ? Depression is a mental health disorder that affects a person's mood and feelings of self-worth. Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe. The most severe type of depression is called major depression . A combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors are believed to play a role in ...