Depression – diagnosis and treatment | T&F

The cause of depression is almost always obvious.

Depression affects men and women equally.

The symptoms of depression need to be present for at least 2 weeks before a formal diagnosis of depression can be made.

An average depressive episode lasts 6-8 weeks.

If the first episode is treated properly, depression will not re-occur.

Computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is suitable for those with moderate to severe depression.

Improvement in appetite is usually the first benefit of treatment.

Antidepressants are ineffective in treating dysthymia, a form of sub-chronic minor depression where symptoms are present intermittently for at least 2 years.

Venlafaxine should be used with caution in cardiac patients.

St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) can be recommended for mild depression.