trending Medical education topic: Depression

Depression remains a major public health concern in the United States, with recent data showing that nearly 1 in 5 adults report symptoms of depression — a noticeable increase in the past few years. National surveys continue to show high rates among women, as well as among adolescents and young adults, with individuals aged 18–25 experiencing the highest prevalence of major depressive episodes. Adolescent depression has also risen significantly, reflecting broader trends in mental health challenges across younger populations.

Despite the availability of effective treatments, including psychotherapy, medication, and collaborative care approaches, many individuals with depression still do not receive timely evaluation or support. This underscores the importance of ensuring that healthcare professionals remain equipped to recognize symptoms, use appropriate screening tools, and provide or coordinate evidence-based treatment. Strengthening clinicians’ knowledge helps improve early identification and ensures patients receive the right care at the right time.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this activity, the learners will be able to:

1. Explore a differential diagnosis of depressive disorders.

2. Identify factors in the antidepressant selection, including evidence for efficacy and side effects.

3. Describe relationships between specific antidepressants and illness course, comorbidity, and clinical features.

4. Address potential severe complications of depression, including suicidality and overlap with other medical illness.

5. Employ the knowledge to consider women, children and the elderly

If your medical staff needs an update on depression, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/releases/20250416.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8868033/#:~:text=A%20total%20of%20167%2C783%20adolescents,2005%20to%202014(3).

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK617422/?utm_source=chatgpt.com