Depression. Management techniques in primary care

Depression is a commonly encountered problem in primary medical care. In cases of mild reactive depression, supportive psychotherapy by the primary care physician may be sufficient treatment. Referral for specialized psychotherapy (interpersonal, cognitive, or behavioral therapy) should be considered when psychological risk factors are thought to play an important role in the patient's depression. According to recent clinical trials, specialized psychotherapy is as effective in treating depression as standard tricyclic anti-depressant therapy and can be used as an alternative to medication. When used in conjunction with medication, psychotherapy may enhance compliance and therapeutic efficacy.