Depression in Schizophrenics

The chapters of this volume were originally presented at a symposium on "Depression in Schizophrenics" held at the University of Calgary, Health Sciences Centre on July 06 and 07, 1988. It was the intent of the organizers to draw together leading international researchers to address, in a comprehensive fashion, the persisting problem of depression in schizophrenic individuals. As many of the authors point out, depression was clearly identified as a central problem in schizophrenia by the pioneers of psychiatry. Their wisdom and clinical acumen was lost for a time to be only recently re discovered. Their insights must now be integrated with modern taxonomic systems, evolving etiological models and methods of assessment. With increased recognition of the problem of depression in this population we must also examine appropriate methods of ameliorating the suffering of those afflicted. The conference was divided into sections (theoretical aspects, phenomenology, suicide and treatment) and the chairmen of these sections have given brief introductions. Necessary overlap of topics and methods provided a convergent and validating examination of empirical results which may serve to direct continuing studies. As well we hope that thoughtful review may directly influence clinical practice and thereby improve the quality of life for schizophrenic patients.