Outcomes of Depression International Network (ODIN). Background, methods and field trials. ODIN Group

ODIN aims (a) to provide data on the prevalence, risk factors and outcome of depressive disorders in rural and urban settings within the European Union (EU) based on an epidemiological sampling frame; and (b) to assess the impact of two psychological interventions on the outcome of depression and on service utilisation and costs.

Five centres across the EU are participating in ODIN. The centres are linked electronically and members meet regularly for training and strategic reviews. Urban and rural areas have been identified in each centre. The sampling frame is of adults aged 18-64, identified via primary care databases or electoral registers. Potential cases of depressive disorders are identified using the Beck Depression Inventory SCAN II and other validated measures are used to assign caseness against DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria; assess comorbidity, disability, genetic/familial susceptibility, psychosocial stressors, personality traits and cognitive factors; and utilisation of local health care services. A randomised controlled trial of individual problem-solving treatment and a group educational programme is undertaken for respondents identified as cases of depressive disorder individuals are followed-up at six and 12 months.

ODIN has already stimulated the development of an effective international research partnership.