This paper addresses the prevention & treatment of depression in the general population. It argues that the public health burden of depression cannot be effectively tackled solely at the level of the treatment of individuals; in addition, coherent strategies by national governments are required. It summarises some of the public health interventions that were undertaken in England by the government to reduce the risk factors associated with depression, to increase detection & treatment & to destigmatize this disorder. Lessons learned from this experience are described. (40 refs)