A review of depression prevention in primary care

The treatment of depression in primary care has become a pressing clinical topic in recent years. Research has detailed the chronic, common, and costly nature of the disease. In an effort to meet the proactive preventive challenge of physicians, this review integrates current research and suggestions for practice across the spectrum of preventive medicine. Patient education, screening, and follow up care are among the topics discussed with a special consideration for the unique cultural, environmental, and demographic influences of West Virginia residents. The overall objective of this review is to raise awareness of depression and increase access to mental health services within primary care.