81836 - Depression Dilemmas

Depression is a common condition managed predominantly in the primary care setting. Often these presentations are complicated by additional co-morbidities and psychosocial factors. Depression Dilemmas is a interactive 6 hour workshop for general practitioners and psychologists that explores the clinical challenges of caring for patients with depression that is difficult to treat. In particular the program deals with depression in the context of alcohol use disorders, late life depression and its overlap with early dementia, and depression that is failing to respond to regular treatment. The program emphasises clinical relevance, focusing on the practical knowledge and skills primary care practitioners require to care for this patient group with confidence. 
 

There are several aspects of managing depression that primary care clinicians find particularly challenging. Of 92 respondents, 40 ranked resistant depression as their most pressing learning need and 21 selected depression and substance abuse. A third topic, old age depression was chosen for the Depression Dilemma program to reflect the findings of the Beyond Blue and NARI study in 2010 which recommended further mental health training for all health professionals involved in providing care to older age patients.