Depression – Initial assessment ( NICE June 22 )

Depression refers to a wide range of mental health problem charecterised by the absence of a positive affect ( a loss if interest and enjoyment in ordinary things and experiences ) , low mood and a range of emotional , cognitive , physical and behavioural symptoms

Includes subthreshold and mild depression ( PHQ- score of less then 16 ) Includes moderate to severe depression ( PHQ score of 16 or more )

During the last month , have they often been bothered by feeling down , depressed or hopeless ? During the last month , have they often been bothered by having little interest or pleasure in doing things ?

Assess mental state and associated functional , interpersonal and social difficulties

A validated measure can be used to inform and evaluate treatment

Comprehensive assessment which does not simply rely on a symptom count but also takes into account severity of symptoms , previous history , duration and course if illness

Also take into account ○ degree of functional impairment and or disability ○ length of episode

Also discuss the factors below which may have affected the development , course & severity of their depression ( along with symptoms & associated...