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PRACTITIONER 2009;253(1728):9

Should we simplify the DSM IV criteria for major depression?

16 Apr 2010Pais-up subscribers

The authors suggest that the simpler definition is preferable for two reasons. First, it is easier to remember and will reduce the time needed to make an assessment. Second, for patients with a chronic condition, it avoids the difficulty of deciding whether somatic symptoms are caused by depression or by the physical illness itself. Another group of patients for whom this is often a problem are antenatal and postnatal mothers.

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