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

PurposeThe 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.MethodsThe 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).ResultsPanic 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.ConclusionsThese prognostic factors are similar to those found in clinical samples. Despite remission from chronic depression, a significant proportion have impairments in functioning.