Scores of less than 5 indicate no depression, 5-9 mildepressionon, 10-14 modepressionression, 15-19 moderately severe, and over 20 severe depression [28].
That leaves a patient pool of the mild to moderately depressed -- and mild to moderate depression is a disease that waxes and wanes.
Recent studies have thrown doubt on the true effectiveness of anti-depressants in light and moderate depression.
Dr. Greden said many general practitioners could effectively treat people with mild to moderate depression.
Cognitive behaviour therapy is recommended in preference to pills for mild to moderate depression and anxiety.
Research also has found that aerobic exercise improves symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
According to Nice, there is evidence that St John's wort (SJW) may help mild or moderate depression.
4 Exercise and sleep: Studies show that exercise is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression.
The group also cited the earlier studies indicating that St. John's wort did help people with mild to moderate depression.
If people need more help for mild to moderate depression, then they should be offered support, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or exercise classes.
The study concludes that "there is little evidence" that antidepressants are more effective than a placebo for minor to moderate depression.
