Summary

Depression is a low mood that can last a long time or keep returning, affecting everyday life

• It is often characterised by a loss of interest & enjoyment in ordinary things and low mood
• ‘Less severe depression’ & ‘More severe depression’ are used to define severity of depression
• A diagnosis of depression should be considered if a person has risk factors, non-specific symptoms, or symptoms listed below
• Initial management often includes self-help information, medication, and referrals to therapies

Care pathways

This pathway is designed to ensure all new depression diagnoses are reviewed within 2 months. This process is separate to the medication reviews by pharmacists.

This process only covers the steps required for QOF outcomes. See 😥Depressive Disorders for the full process.

1️⃣ Initial Diagnosis

1. At the initial diagnosis, use the clinical template ‘Penrose Health MHN 1st Appt’ to ensure the correct data is captured, and coded appropriately
2. Ensure a score for PHQ9 is recorded: Online Calculator or Printable Form
3. Book a review appointment with yourself, following 😥Depressive Disorders guidelines

2️⃣ Review with Patient

1. Open clinical template ‘Penrose Health MHN follow-up’ and complete
2. Book appropriate follow-up if you or the patient feels this is necessary
3. Ensure appropriate referrals are made

3️⃣ Mop up

1. Run search for patients with new diagnosis of depression 40-56 days ago
2. Check records of patient to ensure it is appropriately coded for a new diagnosis
3. Call patient and open ‘Penrose Health - Depression - V02’ & complete