GPs saw 300,000 patients with depression last year

Depression Alliance Scotland (DAS) will also strive to raise the profile of the condition and provide support.

The charity said 300,000 people consulted their GP in Scotland last year with depression.

The condition, which leads to intense feelings of sadness and despair, affects one in five people at some point in their lives.

DAS has estimated that 75% of cases are neither reported nor treated.

The message is simple - depression is in most cases treatable and sufferers can greatly improve their quality of life Cynthia Milligan DAS

Adam Ingram, chairman of Holyrood's cross party group on mental health, officially launched the charity in Edinburgh.

The Scottish National Party MSP for the South of Scotland said: "I would like to congratulate Depression Alliance Scotland in their endeavours to become a national organisation with charitable status.

"Depression is widespread in Scotland and their contribution to mental health services is an enormous support for those touched by mental illness."

DAS chairwoman Cynthia Milligan said she hoped the new charity would make a difference.

"Depression is a misunderstood illness which can have a devastating effect on those suffering from it.

'Improved support'

"It is a tragedy that whilst depression is on the increase in Scotland many people do not seek treatment or support for fear of the stigma associated with both depression and mental health in general.

"The message is simple - depression is in most cases treatable and sufferers can greatly improve their quality of life.

"We look forward to improving the level of support currently available for people affected by depression in Scotland."

Minister's pledge

Deputy Health Minister Tom McCabe said the Scottish Executive was aware of the "devastating impact" depression could have.

He said the executive is committed to addressing mental health concerns and recently launched the Doing Well by People with Depression programme.

The minister added: "For many people depression is treatable and it's important that interventions and support are available to those with depression, their families and friends.

"As depression can affect anyone it's vital that people have organisations to which they can turn for help and support."