Depression Screening: An Effective Tool to Reduce Disability and Loss Productivity

Introduction
According to the World Health Organization, “Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by sadness, loss of interest in activities and by decreased energy. It is estimated that 5-10% of the population at any given time is suffering from identifiable depression needing treatment or psychosocial intervention. Despite the seriousness of depression as a disease and the availability of effective treatment, only 30% of cases worldwide receive appropriate care. Depressive disorders are common, causing a very high level of disease burden, and there is an expected rising trend in the coming 20 years. “ Early identification and treatment will enhance the health of the employee and company.

Methods
The following questions are asked in the disability management process netting better results in getting employee’s back to productive work.

Screening Questions for Depression:
During the past month: YES OR NO
Have you often been bothered by feeling down, depressed or hopeless?
Have you often been bothered by little interest or pleasure in doing things?

Results
Routine screening for depression is recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) accompanied with accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and follow-up. Researchers have developed practical screening tools for healthcare professionals in routine clinical setting or disability case management. A two-question initial screening test has been validated.3 A positive response to either question is extremely sensitive and identifies more than 90 percent of patients with major depression. However, it is only approximately 60 percent specific and requires confirmation using a detailed clinical interview or a more specific tool such as the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). In the workplace, a referral would be made for specific diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.

Discussion
The topic of global depression, the questionnaire along with follow-up requirements and the results on one company’s experience will be the focus of the discussion.