SCREENING FOR PRIMARY-CARE IN COMMUNITY AND PRIMARY-CARE POPULATIONS

Mental disorders are not only common-in the general population but are also one of the most prevalent group of conditions seen in primary ca re populations. The growing awareness of the need to organize services at the primary care level has resulted in a large number of studies o f the general population and those attending primary care. The general population studies Show that majority of the ill people are not getti ng treatment. Of those attending primary care, 3-35% are suffering fro m depressive disorders, with a median value of 10%. Special population groups have higher prevalence rates. Another emerging issue is the co morbidity of anxiety disorders with depressive disorders, alcohol and drug abuse and physical and mental disorders. There is growing recogni tion of the burden of untreated depression on the individuals and comm unity. Research is also emphasizing the role of social factors as caus es. A number of innovative programmes of care and training materials f or the primary care personnel have been developed both in developed an d developing countries.