The care of people with mild and moderate depression. A brief reflection

Abstract

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses and significantly affects the functioning of those who suffer from it. Its prevention and treatment are a priority for health systems worldwide and nationally because of its high incidence and growing trend. In recent decades, stepped-care models have been adopted in various clinical guidelines on depression. This model offers a series of interventions ranging from lower to higher intensity according to the severity of the depression. However, current models do not consider, in a standardized way, fundamental aspects such as emotional support, self-help and psychoeducation for patients diagnosed with mild and/or moderate major depression in primary care. This gap in care raises ethical and professional questions about the role of mental health nurse specialists in primary care.