Depression: influence on time estimation and time experience

Abstract

Time studies are partly concerned with time estimation partly with time experience. In a study of depression both principles were applied. Depression did not influence time estimation, but, on the other hand, the patients did report a slowing down of time (change in time experience). An item analysis of Beck's and Hamilton's rating scales showed that the disturbance in time experience accompanies items referring mainly to mood changes, only to a small extent to somatic symptoms, and not at all to changes in the psychomotor activity.