Mood disorders represent a main health concern, due to their high prevalence in the general popula- tion and because they are related to a severe worsening of quality of life and psychosocial functioning of those who are a ected. Because of the importance of such diseases, that, according to WHO, might become the major cause of morbidity by 2020, an e cacious, targeted and precise approach is essential in everyday clinical practice. is article reviews the methods of diagnostic approach, with the aim of describing the di erent phases of nosographic classi cation of mood disorders and their meaning. In particular, the most reliable classi cation distinguishes between unipolar (major depressive disorder) and bipolar (type I and II) disorders: the right di erential diagnosis is important because there are great di erences in the optimal management of these conditions (antidepressants vs. mood stabilizers) and diagnostic errors can potentially worsen the patient’s prognosis. In conclusion, the right noso- graphic classi cation allows the right therapeutic and prognostic approach. is may result in higher rates of remission and response, thus improving patient’s quality of life and overall wellness.
