Major Depressive Disorder in Hospitalized Medically Ill Patients: an Examination of Young and Elderly Male Veterans

Examined depressive disorders using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule in 116 young & 332 elderly medically ill men in a veteran’s medical facility. Major depression was diagnosed in 22.4% of subjects under 40 years of age & in 13.3% of those age 70 years & over. Besides age, other risk factors for major depression included impaired social support & a history of psychiatric problems. Symptomatology was of prolonged duration in both age groups & frequently included suicidal thoughts. (68 refs.)