THE DEFEAT DEPRESSION CAMPAIGN - PSYCHIATRY IN THE PUBLIC ARENA

Objective: The adequate recognition and treatment of depression are in hibited by negative public attitudes and gaps in professional expertis e. This paper describes the activities and efforts of the Defeat Depre ssion Campaign, a joint activity of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Royal College of General Practitioners, in the United Kingdom . Method: A 5-year campaign was undertaken from 1992 to 1996, aimed at enhancing public awareness and attitudes and providing professional e ducation. Results: An informational media campaign directed toward the general public was successfully undertaken. Leaflets, books, and audi otapes were also prepared and distributed to the public. Multiprofessi onal conferences on specific aspects of depression were organized. An extensive program of general practice education included consensus con ferences and statements, recognition and management guidelines, traini ng videotapes, and other publications. Public attitudes were found to be relatively favorable, except attitudes toward antidepressants, whic h were viewed as addictive. A general consequence of the campaign was the development of much additional public material and professional ed ucation not directly originating from the campaign. Aspects of the cam paign are being evaluated, including public attitude change, impact of educational materials on general practitioners, and prescription of a ntidepressants. Conclusions: A campaign of this kind serves a useful f unction in enhancing public education and awareness and improving prof essional recognition and management of depression.