The influence of GPs' personal experience on perceived competence in depression management

Managing depression in general practice is a multifaceted task, influenced by factors such as the condition's characteristics, patient-specific variables, and the personal habits of attending physicians. A study by Dumesnil et al. in France highlighted the impact of GPs' personal experiences with depression on their patient care approaches.

This study investigated how the personal experiences of Belgian GPs influence their self-perceived competence in managing patients with depression.

This transversal study was conducted through questionnaires distributed in a GP training (2020-2022). Statistical analyses (Chi-square test/multivariate logistic regression) were conducted using STATA-SE 17.0.

Out of 325 GPs, 30.46% of GPs had experienced depression and 16.62% had taken antidepressants. After categorisation and adjustment, the personal experience of GPs does not influence self-efficacy in diagnosing and supporting depressed patients. Higher self-efficacy scores were associated with an advanced age (60-64y/o) (aOR:7,9;IC95%), working in a multidisciplinary practice (aOR:3,4), prior training on the issue (aOR:2,1), and male gender (aOR:0,5). GPs with personal experiences of depression (aOR:2,6), advanced age (aOR:4,1) and working in multidisciplinary practices (aOR:3,4) had more appropriate responses to the proposed clinical situations than other groups.

This study reveals that the personal experience of depression among GPs does not influence their perceived competencies, contrary to having received prior training on the issue. However, experiencing depression is associated with more appropriate responses to clinical situations. These results are consistent with existing literature regarding socio-demographic factors and practice type. In the future, it is important to consider these factors when developing continuing education programs.