Differential diagnosis of chronic depressive disorders

This article has traced the development of the diagnostic nomenclature for the chronic affective disorders during the past four decades. Much has been accomplished. In fact, our current differential diagnostic capabilities have surpassed our knowledge of how to treat the chronic depressions. It is hoped that in the next decade there will be notable increases in the treatment efficacy literature of the chronic mild depressions. Next, we suggest that practitioners assist academic investigators in determining the best way to treat the chronic depressions. To realize this goal, clinicians must begin to view themselves as part-time researchers. Several technological procedures have been described to facilitate this undertaking. We suggest that the assumption of such a research practitioner role will, in the long run, improve the quality of patient care.