Clinical practice guideline for assessment and management of depression in India

This Clinical Practice Guideline has aimed to provide mental health practitioners a comprehensive and evidence-based framework that can be used for the assessment and management of depression specifically catered to the Indian population. Considering the high prevalence of depression and its burden on the affected persons as well as the medical system, these guidelines were needed to help provide psychiatric care that matches the international standards and the cultural and practical needs of the Indian population. The article outlies key risk factors, components of assessment, and pharmacological and psychological management, along with structured approaches for suicide risk management. It also seeks to outline recommended investigations, differential diagnosis, and clinical decision guidelines based on the severity of the psychopathology. Guidelines are offered for the selection of antidepressants, treatment phases, monitoring, switching or augmenting strategies, and tapering the pharmacological treatment. Management strategies for comorbidities, special populations, and treatment-resistant depression are offered in this article. Newer treatment modalities including neuromodulation and novel pharmacological agents showing promise are discussed. Overall, the guideline aims to support clinicians in delivering personalized, effective, and culturally appropriate care for individuals with depression in India.