Question

A 19-year-old university student presents to clinic with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and impaired function for 5 weeks. She has no suicidality, psychosis or substance use. According to CANMAT 2023 guidelines, which initial management is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Start a first-line antidepressant such as an SSRI and offer psychotherapy

Answer

Immediate referral for electroconvulsive therapy

Answer

Start benzodiazepines alone for 6 months

Answer

Recommend watchful waiting without active treatment

Answer

Prescribe high-dose tricyclic antidepressant as first-line

Practice question

A 19-year-old university student presents to clinic with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and impaired function for 5 weeks. She has no suicidality, psychosis or substance use. According to CANMAT 2023 guidelines, which initial management is most appropriate?