Astrocytes are the most widely distributed non-neuronal cells in the central nervous system, and they play essential roles in maintaining efficient neurotransmission through supply of energy metabolites, turnover of neurotransmitters, and blood-brain barrier formation. Currently, the understanding of astrocytes in the pathogenesis of depression is becoming clearer with the study of astrocyte function in the brain. Studies have shown that the morphology and function of astrocytes are significantly changed in patients with major depressive disorder, and animal experimental studies have shown that the loss of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive cells can induce depression in rats. In this paper, we reviewed the role of astrocytes in the pathogenesis of depression.