Depressive Disorders in Indian Context : A Review and Clinical Update for Physicians

Depression is a common, treatable disorder which continues to remain under-detected in the primary care settings. With an average national deficit of 77% for psychiatrists in India, there is a need to mobilise more resources to deal with depressive disorders. Therefore, it is pertinent that the physicians are sensitised and trained for recognition and treatment of depressive disorders. Patients with mild to moderate depression, non-psychotic or somatised depression can be managed in primary care settings by general physicians. Unless specifically screened, depression may remain under-recognised and untreated in primary care/medical settings. The article reviews the available Indian research on depression and provide a clinical update to screen, diagnose and manage depression, especially aimed at physicians.