Depression is one of the most common contemporary problems. But what exactly do we mean by the term ? In this invaluable book Ross Mitchell looks at depression as a mood, as an experience, as an attitude to life and as an illness. He examines the organic, psychological and social roots of depression, laying particular emphasis on the early relationship between mother and child. His argument is illustrated by a number of case histories, and an important concluding chapter focuses on the role of both volunteer and professional in caring for the depressed.