Primer on Depression

Depression is a commonly occurring illness in the general population. Existing systems for identifying and treating depression vary greatly, and the adoption of a universal, standardized method of addressing the disorder within primary care is lacking. New guidelines and recommendations by accrediting bodies have resulted in the development of some initiatives and the increased recognition of depression, yet treatments continue to rely on referrals to specialty psychiatric care providers. Given that primary care may be the only point of health care access for many individuals, this serves as an opportune setting to initiate treatment at the time that depression screening is completed. With adequate support, guidance, and a systemic approach (i.e., measurement-based care), primary care providers can be as effective as psychiatric specialty care in treating depression. This chapter providers evidence for this approach, along with direct recommendations to primary care providers.