[The depression ward--a review of the current status]

New therapeutic concepts are usually developed and realised step by step. Over the past years changes occurred mainly in two ways. There is a trend to reduce the size of the psychiatric hospital as such and/or to section off certain areas by introducing specialised units. From the experience with the so called "Affective Disorder Units" or "Mood Clinics" developed the concept of a Depression Unit, first introduced in Europe for research purposes at the Psychiatric University Hospital in Basle in 1968. In Germany the first Depression Unit was established at the PLK Weissenau in 1976. Similar units followed over the years at the PLK Reichenau, Weinsberg, the BKH Günzburg, the Landesklinik Nordschwarzwald Hirsau/Calw and the Rheinische Landesklinik Bedburg-Hau, other hospitals are planning them. Existing units are described in terms of their structural organisation, staffing situation and the service they provide. The concept of the Depression Unit according to criteria laid down agreed upon in the literature is summed up, and emotional atmosphere, structural organisation, activation, and individual therapeutic measures, discussed. Advantages are mentioned such as better understanding of patients, allowing them to let go and be cared for, aimed regression, the effects of being taken along, improved communication, and a way of dealing with suicidal thoughts and depressive behavior that reduces anxiety. Disadvantages such as the danger of spoiling patients or inducing a sense of resignation both in patients and staff are discussed.