n CME : Your SA Journal of CPD - Issues in treating depression in primary care

Abstract

The last 10 years have seen exciting developments in the availability of new evidence-based treatments for depression. This includes the registration of new antidepressants (ADs) as well as new information about the effectiveness of ADs and psychological therapies. Many 'alternative' therapies, including exercise, herbal remedies, green tea and massage therapies, are promoted for depression, but discussion of these is beyond the scope of this article. Most new literature and conference proceedings focus on new drugs and treatment-resistant depression, leaving little room for questioning some of the basic assumptions. Evidence-based methods of review and the global access to information through the internet have led to new questions and information about the treatment of depression.