[Psychodynamic of depressions].

Chronic depressive reactions are seen especially in patients who cannot react adequately in the face of loss, because for psychological reasons they cannot give expression to their unhappiness. Examples are the abnormal grief reactions following severe loss, and also reactions to experiences which appear outwardly trivial, but which nevertheless are damaging to self-esteem. Inability to show dissatisfaction and inhibition of one's own aggressive tendencies are characteristic of depressive neurosis. The analysis of the relevant factors, which is important for differential diagnosis, and above all in treatment, should take into account the current personal and social situation of the individual, his earlier psychological development, his constitution, any supervening physical disorder, and the influence of environmental and cultural forces.