A 28-year-old woman presents with a 6-week history of low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep, reduced appetite, and feelings of worthlessness. She has no pas...

Question

A 28-year-old woman presents with a 6-week history of low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep, reduced appetite, and feelings of worthlessness. She has no past psychiatric history and denies suicidal ideation. She scores 18 on the PHQ-9 questionnaire, indicating moderate depression. According to NICE NG222, what is the most appropriate initial management step?

Accepted Answer

Referral for high-intensity psychological therapy (e.g., CBT)

Answer

Prescribe an SSRI (e.g., sertraline)

Answer

Watchful waiting with follow-up in 2 weeks

Answer

Referral to a psychiatrist

Answer

Prescribe St John's Wort

ukmla MCQ (SBA): Moderate Depression