Management of depression in the elderly by general practitioners: referral for psychological treatments

This study investigates referrals for psychological therapies in general practitioners (GPs) from five catchment areas. The results show that 93 per cent of GPs would consider referring elderly patients for psychological help but only 44 per cent had done so and one in three GPs were unfamiliar with the psychological therapies available. When GPs were asked to select a psychological treatment for depression, 60 per cent chose counselling compared to 21 per cent who chose cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). Female GPs particularly favoured counselling. Experience in psychiatry was associated with selection of CBT. The results show that GP training and further education should emphasize psychological therapies. This should make referrals more appropriate and improve patient care.