Grant: CIHR New Investigator

In spite of the frequency and severity of depression, controversy remains over the appropriate use of antidepressants as treatment. Part of the confusion stems from the fact that randomized controlled trials that test the efficacy of antidepressants often have a very short duration and have rigid criteria that exclude many individuals with common features of depression. Consequently, little is known about the long-term effectiveness of antidepressant treatment among depressed people in the general population. This project will use data from an ongoing study run by Statistics Canada that has followed a group of 17,276 Canadians since 1994. The sample for this study will include 573 individuals who were depressed in 1998/99. Those who were using antidepressants will be compared to those who were not with regards to their experience of depression between 2000/01 and 2006/07. The analysis will account for several influential factors that affect the likelihood of being treated with antidepressants and the prognosis of depression. Given recent controversy over the efficacy of antidepressant medications in the treatment of depression, the results of this study could make a significant contribution towards providing evidence to guide policy-makers and clinicians in decisions regarding best care for individuals with depression.