A major new study has mapped the 44 genetic variants that raise the risk of depression, which could lead the way for new treatments.

Brian Dow, Director of External Affairs at Rethink Mental Illness said,

"This major study is another important piece of the jigsaw in our understanding of what depression is and what the genetic risk factors might be. While we cannot discount social or economic factors when it comes to mental illness, it is encouraging to see quality research helping to fill in the gaps.

"We look forward to seeing how this could lead to potential new treatments for depression and other mental illnesses. Currently mental health research and treatment is far behind where it should be and this could be an important step in the right direction."