Question

A 28-year-old woman presents with a 2-month history of low mood, anhedonia, fatigue and poor concentration, without psychotic symptoms. She has no significant medical comorbidities and denies suicidal ideation. According to CANMAT 2023 guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

Accepted Answer

Offer either first-line psychotherapy (e.g., CBT) or a first-line antidepressant such as an SSRI, based on shared decision-making

Answer

Begin a combination of two antidepressants immediately

Answer

Prescribe long-term benzodiazepines as monotherapy

Answer

Recommend no treatment because symptoms are likely to resolve

Answer

Admit her involuntarily to hospital for electroconvulsive therapy

Practice question