Common mental disorders among patients in primary health care in Greenland

Studies from all over the world have shown that well defined mental disorders are common in all general health care settings and that marked disability is associated with common mental disorders, more so than with chronic physical disorders without psychological disturbances. A majority of mental disorders are unrecognized and do not get appropriate treatment. No such study has been made in Greenland, but there are many indications that mental health is threatened and needs more attention. A two-stage study of common mental disorders among patients in the primary health service in Greenland is planned to take place from September 1996 to 1998. The research plan is presented as an invitation to replicate the study in other circumpolar areas.