Citation

Althaus D, Hegerl U. Med. Welt. 2005; 56(7-8): 326-331.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, F K Schattauer)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Approximately 10% of the patients in primary care suffer from depression. Due to the mutual trust between the patient and his family doctor, GPs often have a key role in detecting depressive disorders. But somatisation and the preponderance of physical symptoms of the disease often complicate the detection of depression. Systematic screening (e.g. WHO-5) can support the GP in recognising the disorder. In many cases depression can be treated by the GP. Additionally to the prescription of an antidepressant in an adequate dosage a good doctor-patient-relationship contributes much to the success of the therapy. Information about the disorder and possible treatment strategies seem to improve the patient's compliance. Observation of suicidality should be carried out during the entire treatment; if necessary hospitalisation should be considered. © 2005 Schattauer GmbH.

Language: de

Keywords

human; Depression; Primary care; Treatment; depression; suicide attempt; Screening; hospitalization; treatment outcome; mass screening; review; primary medical care; antidepressant agent; doctor patient relation; patient compliance; somatization