Summary

• Characterised by persistent low mood, loss of interest and enjoyment, and reduced energy.
• Common in primary care, affecting 5% to 10% of patients in this setting.
• Often have a personal or family history of depression; have experienced a recent stress, trauma, or loss; or have comorbid medical illness.
• Recommendations suggest that centres screening adults should have systems in place that ensure positive screening results are followed by accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and careful follow-up.
• Most patients respond well to psychotherapy, antidepressants, or a combination of both.
• Suicidal ideation can occur before, during, or after treatment, so clinicians should assess this at each visit.