Quality of life and neurotic disorders in general healthcare

To review recent findings on the relationship between neurotic disorders (specifically depression, anxiety and somatization) and function and quality of life (QoL) in patients with complex clinical presentations, and to consider the clinical and public health implications.

The high prevalence of comorbid depression and anxiety among patients with general medical disorders is well known. The impact of the comorbidity on function in these patients is documented extensively. The study of their QoL is an emerging area of work, though its interpretation is controversial. The impact of somatization on function and QoL is less well studied. Recent findings emphasize the value of a common measure for QoL across health conditions.

Depression, anxiety and somatization are a significant burden in the general population and failure to recognize and manage these problems in general healthcare contributes to delayed recovery. A holistic approach to symptom, disability and QoL assessment, done in awareness of possible measurement redundancy, is likely to assist better recognition and management of these conditions. Further research is needed on the effects on QoL of depression and anxiety in patients with general medical disorders and early detection and treatment of somatization.