Year: 2000 Source: MJA. Medical Journal of Australia, v.173, no.2, (July 17, 2000), p.106-110 SIEC No: 20011362

A range of initiatives are under way in Australia to improve mental health practice in primary care. This article describes elements derived from “SPHERE: a National Depression Project”. Topics discussed include: early detection in primary care, diagnostic pragmatism, risk assessment, engaging & empowering the patient, choosing an antidepressant, beyond drug therapy, structured problem solving, & cognitive & interpersonal therapies. (39 refs.)