Parallel evaluations of new guidance materials for anxiety and depression in primary care

Abstract

New self-help material for anxiety and depression, together with a companion manual for general practitioners were developed and evaluated over three months. The self-help manual was evaluated in a randomised controlled trial. Nine hypotheses were advanced but few significant results were noted. The manual for general practitioners was evaluated in a before-and-after design with general practitioners acting as their own baseline. Six hypotheses were advanced but again few significant results were noted. These outcomes are believed to be consequences of the short duration of the trials and the small numbers recruited. In spite of these difficulties, a trend was noted toward greater improvements in general health and reduced medication among users of the self-help material. A second trend towards reduced prescribing and increased counselling was detected among general practitioners using the practitioner's manual. Both manuals were well received, by general practitioners and their patients.