[Most depressed patients can be treated in primary health care]

About 15% of primary care attenders suffer from depression, yet only a minority are identified and treated. It is of major importance to spread knowledge of the prevalence of depression and tools for recognizing the disorder. Most patients can be successfully treated in a primary care setting. Studies have shown that educational efforts and close cooperation between psychiatrists and general practitioners (GP's) lead to an increase in the proportion of depressed patients that are identified and properly treated. The use of diagnostic self-reports can facilitate this process for the GP. It is crucial to identify and treat the disorder early on, in order to improve prognosis, decrease the risk of complications and reduce costs for society and the health care system. The article reviews recent studies concerning depression in primary care, describes relevant diagnostic tools and discusses treatment strategies, including self-care and St Johns' wort.