Predictors of remission from chronic depression: A prospective study in a nationally representative sample

Purpose: The aims of this study were to identify predictors of remission from chronic depression in a prospective longitudinal general population survey; second, to determine the relative level functioning and well-being of those in remission. Methods: The sample included respondents who met the criteria for major depressive disorder from Wave 1 (2001-2002) and through Wave 2 (2004-2005) of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). Results: Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Cluster B personality disorders and a history of Physical Abuse were correlated with reduced likelihood of chronic depression remission. The functioning and well-being of the remitted group was below the norm. Conclusions: These prognostic factors are similar to those found in clinical samples. Despite remission from chronic depression, a significant proportion have impairments in functioning. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.