The studies about the comorbidity of major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) have increased in the last years. The comorbidity with Axis I psychiatric disorders complicates the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.

To analyze the prevalence of affective disorders associated with another Axis I psychiatric disorders to treat correctly from the beginning of the diagnosis and to improve the course of the disorder and the quality of life of these patients

The subjects who participated in the study were diagnosed of bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder and MDD, according to DSM-IV-TR criteria. The sample (n = 114) was divided into three groups: MDD (n = 58), BD (n = 31) and a control group of healthy subjects (n = 25). The diagnosis and stability were assessed using the MINI International Neuropsyquiatric Interview and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS).

BD had a significantly association with risk of suicide (38%), anxiety disorder (3.3%) and social phobia (12.9%). It was also reported a significant association between MDD and risk of suicide (71%), manic/hypomanic episodes (25.9%), anxiety disorder (37.9%), social phobia (25.9%) and generalized anxiety disorder (37.9%).

It is necessary for clinical practice an integrative model which takes into account the comorbidity of affective disorders to improve the response to treatment and the prognosis of these mental disorders