[Depression and personality disorders]

The association between depressive disorders and personality disorders is frequent. They need to be acknowledged in general practice for a better treatment (therapeutic alliance, compliance). Twenty to 50% of psychiatric inpatients and 50 to 85% of outpatients with a major depressive episode also have an associated personality disorder, most frequently borderline, avoidant, dependent or obsessive. These associations, as well as the so-called depressive personality disorder, have many implications for other persistant mood disorders such as dysthymic disorders. This article discusses the therapeutic options for an optimal treatment of these disorders.