Affective Disorders in Iraq

Already an extensive literature exists on affective disorders, particularly depressive illness, in various developing countries of the world (Carothers, 1947; Tooth, 1950; Lambo, 1956 and 1960; Asuni, 1962; Pfeiffer, 1962 and 1963; Yap, 1965). Different authors have commented on different aspects of these disorders, and variations in their incidence, symptomatology and course have aroused widespread speculation regarding possible cultural influences on aetiology and clinical picture.