Depression is a broad term that covers a wide spectrum of conditions ranging from mild despondency to major depressive disorder. It is one of the most common of all medical conditions, yet also one of the most difficult to recognise. There are many effective treatments from evidence-based psychotherapies to antidepressant medications and non-invasive somatic treatments. Part of the Oxford Psychiatry Library this concise pocketbook outlines the best principles of care for depression, looking at early recognition, careful assessment and the selection of appropriate treatments. Demonstrating the clinical features and possible causes of clinical depression this pocketbook looks at the current treatment strategies and addresses the diagnostic and treatment issues that clinicians frequently encounter. Using relevant evidence and practical guidance the authors have tried to simplify and aid the management of a very complex disorder. About the Author: Dr. Raymond W. Lam is Professor and Head of the Division of Clinical Neuroscience in the Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, and Director of the Mood Disorders Centre of Excellence at UBC Hospital within the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute. His research examines clinical and neurobiological factors in seasonal, atypical, difficult-to-treat and workplace depression, biological effects of light, clinical trials, clinical guidelines and treatment programs for depression. Dr. Lam has published over 250 scientific articles and book chapters, and edited or authored 6 books on depression. He also sits on the editorial boards of 6 international journals, including the Journal of Affective Disorders and the Cochrane Collaboration. Dr. Lam has received many awards for his research and teaching, including the Silver Anniversary Leadership Award (UBC Medical Alumni, 2006) and the Scientific Achievement Award (Vancouver Coastal Health, 2003). |
