This article reviews the work of Akiskal et al., concerning low-grade chronic depression. Three studies of a neurotic depressive out-patient population result in establishing clinically relevant subgroups of mild chronic depression. Dysthymic patients are presented as a so far underexposed group with a characteristic familial and developmental background and with critical remarks concerning Akiskal's studies and emphasizes the importance of further research to arrive at a justified assessment and treatment of low-grade chronic depression.