Depression- Adults

Step-1 Recognition , assessment and initial management of depression in adults.Asking questions and initial management.Be alert to possible depression particularly in people with○ past h/o depression○ chronic physical health problemwith associated functional impairment. feeling down depressed or hopeless ? having little interest or pleasure in doing things.Review persons mental state and associated functional , interpersonal and social difficulties Consider using a validated measure of symptoms , functions and / or disability For people with language or communication difficulties , consider using the Distress Thermometer and / or asking a family member or carer about symptoms Investigate further if distress is identified.

Subthreshold depressive symptoms describe a situation when an individual has some of the 9 defining symptoms of depression but they are insufficient in number or severity to meet full criteria to diagnose depression ( National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health 2009a )

If depression suspected- conduct a comprehensive assessment that does not rely simply on a symptom count- take into account-degree of associated functional impairment and / or disability duration of the episode.h/o depression and co-morbid conditions past h/o mood elevation response to previous Rx quality of interpersonal relationships living conditions and social isolation.

Learning disability or acquired cognitive...