Episodes, relapse and persistent depression
What does persistent or chronic depression mean?
Some people experience depressive symptoms for a prolonged period. The source describes different patterns. Duration and severity are separate features that need to be considered together. [1]
General information for adults. Not medical or psychotherapeutic advice; not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment.
Sources & editorial status
- IQWiG: Forms of depression (German-language source) ↗
Patient information on different patterns; not an individual prognosis. Accessed: 29 October 2026.
Compiled from an existing article: 31 October 2026. Source comparison in the article: 29 October 2026. Prepared with AI assistance; independent medical review is pending. Editorial compilation; independent medical expert review has not taken place.
Editorial responsibility: Mario V.W.B.R. Obst. Known limitations and the use of each source are explained alongside the reference. A source-comparison date is not the publication date of the original source.