Question

A 25-year-old woman presents with persistent low mood, anhedonia, and impaired functioning for 2 months. She has no psychotic symptoms or bipolar history. According to the 2023 CANMAT guidelines for major depressive disorder, which is the most appropriate initial management approach?

Accepted Answer

Offer evidence-based psychotherapy and/or a first-line antidepressant, with shared decision-making

Answer

Start an antidepressant without any psychoeducation or psychotherapy

Answer

Recommend vitamin supplements only and review in 6 months

Answer

Prescribe benzodiazepines as monotherapy

Answer

Refer only for electroconvulsive therapy as first-line

Practice question

A 25-year-old woman presents with persistent low mood, anhedonia, and impaired functioning for 2 months. She has no psychotic symptoms or bipolar history. According to the 2023 CANMAT guidelines for major depressive disorder, which is the most appropriate initial management approach?