Simple Waiting Room Test Can Help Diagnose Depression, Anxiety

A recent study published in General Hospital Psychiatry found that patients visiting the hospital for a variety of ailments can be easily screened for depression and anxiety while they wait for care. That information can then be sent immediately to their physician to address with them during their visit. Researchers at King’s College London University piloted an electronic questionnaire for patients in six specialty services, including rheumatology, limb reconstruction, hepatitis C, psoriasis, congenital heart disease and chronic pain. The system was extremely effective at providing clinicians with real-time information about their patients and makes an effective use of usable information that non-mental health professionals can use to interpret and act upon. Researchers were also able to evaluate the prevalence of depression and anxiety in relation to the patients’ various ailments. The different prevalence rates of possible depression and anxiety highlights the complex interaction between physical and mental health. To read more about this study, click here.