 Major depressive disorder MDD and other clinically significant forms of minor depression are among the most common mental disorders in the elderly. Data from the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Studies indicate that in the community dwelling elderly, the prevalence of MDD is approximately 1-2 percent. The prevalence of dysthymia and clinically significant depressive symptoms is estimated to be 2-3 and 5-10 respectively. Clinically significant mood disorders are responsible for considerable medical and psychosocial morbidity. These include frequent medical and psychiatric hospitalizations, visits to the emergency room, suicide attempts, and use of alcohol, and other prescription medications with psychotropic effects. The clinical impact of these disorders is comparable to those caused by other chronic medical disorders. 