Mental illness in general practice

Abstract

Detecting and treating mental illness in general practice has always been challenging. Newer pharmacological agents like agomelatine, indicated for major depressive disorder, have a different and possibly superior side-effect profile than conventional antidepressants. Since side-effects of antidepressants is a major reason for non-compliance, it is hoped that this will improve treatment rates and compliance. Despite these newer treatments, the general practitioner is challenged to detect psychiatric disorders and treat and monitor recovery during a 10-minute consultation. This feature explores some of the factors that influence low detection rates, and introduces a unique DVD set that discusses 13 psychiatric disorders in a uniquely South African way.