Depression is a very common condition – with an estimated one in 10 adults experiencing some form of it at any one time. Some people have repeated episodes, others may have a fairly enduring form. Long-term depression is very unpleasant for those who have it as difficulties with work, family and social lives are common.
Mind has teamed up with the Research Departments of Primary Care and Population Health and Mental Health Sciences at University College London (UCL) to look at the way recurrent or enduring depression is treated in primary care.
With UCL we are testing a proactive 'managed care' strategy with about 550 people diagnosed with depression and registered at GP practices throughout the UK. Managed care is similar to care offered to patients with other long-term conditions, such as asthma and diabetes. It involves regular follow-up by practice nurses, with GP back-up, of people at risk of recurrent or longer-term depression.
During the research, half of the participants are receiving managed care, while the other half will act as a control group, and will have treatment as usual from their GP.
At the end of the two-year study period, the two groups will then be compared in terms of mental health and social outcomes. The number of times they have been depressed and their general quality of life over this time will be measured.