Automated telephone screening survey for depression
Article Abstract:
Automated telephone systems appear to provide a low-cost, easily accessible and effective method of screening for mental illness. Interactive voice systems let callers respond to questions by using a touch-tone telephone. Of 1,812 self-referred callers from a high technology firm and a state university, 70.6% were identified as suffering from depression, ranging from mild to severe. Eighty-eight percent of the callers answered all 20 questions of the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, which evaluates symptoms of depression. Among this group, 12% were considered severely depressed and 25.8% were judged moderately depressed. Most callers had not been treated previously for depression. About 75% of callers who completed the entire questionnaire reported that the experience had been helpful. This screening method may be particularly useful among college students, the elderly and handicapped, on-site workers, and rural residents.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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Psychotropic Drug Use in Very Young Children
Article Abstract:
Pediatricians and social workers should investigate the increased use of psychotropic drugs in very young children. Psychotropic drugs are drugs used to treat behavior disorders. Ritalin, which is used to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity syndrome, is an example of a psychotropic drug. A study of 2 Medicaid programs and a managed care organization shows that 1% to 1.5% of all children 2 to 4 years old are receiving stimulants, antidepressants, or antipsychotic drugs. Many of the drugs have not been approved for use in children. The drugs could have serious long-term adverse effects in young children.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2000
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A 52-Year-Old Suicidal Man
Article Abstract:
Primary care physicians can play an important role in preventing people from attempting suicide. Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the US. Ninety percent of the people who commit suicide had at least one major psychiatric disorder, usually a mood disorder, schizophrenia, or alcoholism. Mood disorders are the most important risk factor for suicidal behavior. For this reason, it is critical to screen all patients in the primary care setting for depression. Medications are very effective in treating depressive disorders.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2000
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