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Sub-syndromal depression in adolescents attending primary care: frequency, clinical features and 6 months outcome

Abstract

Background  

The nature of adolescent sub-syndromal depression has not been investigated in primary care.

Aims  

To document frequency, characteristics and 6 month outcome of sub-syndromal depression amongst adolescent primary care attenders.

Method  

Primary care attenders (13–18 years) completed depression screening questionnaires (Mood and Feelings Questionnaires) at consultation
and at 6 month follow-up. Those screening positive were interviewed with the K-SADS. Sub-syndromal depression was defined
as high levels of depressive symptoms in the absence of depressive disorder.

Results  

Two hundred and seventy four questionnaires were completed at consultation: the estimated rate of sub-syndromal depression
was 25 %. These young people were clinically intermediary between those without depressive symptoms and those with depressive
disorder; at 6-months follow-up 57 % had persistent depressive symptoms and 12 % had developed a depressive disorder. Negative
life events during the follow-up period and a positive family history of depression were the strongest predictors of symptom
persistence and the development of depressive disorder, respectively.

Conclusion  

Sub-syndromal depression is common and persistent, in adolescent primary care attenders and it deserves attention.

  • Content Type Journal Article
  • Category Original Paper
  • Pages 1-10
  • DOI 10.1007/s00127-012-0572-z
  • Authors
    • Julia Gledhill, The Academic Unit of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Imperial Collage London (St Mary’s Campus), Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PGUK UK
    • M. Elena Garralda, The Academic Unit of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Imperial Collage London (St Mary’s Campus), Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PGUK UK
    • Journal Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology
    • Online ISSN 1433-9285
    • Print ISSN 0933-7954
Posted in: Journal Article Abstracts on 10/18/2012 | Link to this post on IFP |
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