Reducing the Global Burden of Depression

Abstract

Depression is expected to be one of the leading causes of morbidity by 2020. Nonetheless, the current methods of treatment for depression may not be effective in reducing the global burden of this disease. Currently, pharmacotherapy represents the first line treatment for depressive disorders; however, many adverse effects of anti-depressants are often overlooked and their interference with body chemistry may not be ideal for long-term treatment.

In order to reduce the burden of disease of depression, methods of treatment such as counseling and therapy should be considered as alternatives to pharmacotherapy. Most importantly, these treatments reduce the occurrence of depression relapse, making them more effective in the long-term. In addition to alternative methods of treatment, depression prevention strategies should be prioritized. Not only is depression prevention the best solution therapeutically, but it is also the most cost-effective in reducing global morbidity. In order to implement these strategies, however, more evidence-based research on the prevention of depressive disorders is required.