Question

A 42-year-old woman presents with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and impaired concentration for 8 weeks, with no psychosis or suicidality. There is no history of mania. According to CANMAT 2023 guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Offer either evidence-based psychotherapy or a first-line SSRI/SNRI with shared decision-making

Answer

Start a tricyclic antidepressant as first-line pharmacotherapy

Answer

Prescribe benzodiazepines alone for mood and sleep

Answer

Delay treatment for 6 months to see if symptoms resolve

Answer

Offer electroconvulsive therapy as first-line treatment

Practice question

A 42-year-old woman presents with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and impaired concentration for 8 weeks, with no psychosis or suicidality. There is no history of mania. According to CANMAT 2023 guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management?