A 24-year-old man presents with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and reduced appetite for 6 weeks. He denies suicidal intent but has passive thoughts t...

Question

A 24-year-old man presents with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and reduced appetite for 6 weeks. He denies suicidal intent but has passive thoughts that life is not worth living. There are no psychotic features or substance use. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start an SSRI and arrange psychological therapy and close follow-up

Answer

Immediate involuntary admission

Answer

No treatment; symptoms will resolve spontaneously

Answer

Start a benzodiazepine alone

Answer

Prescribe high-dose tricyclic antidepressant as first-line

au-racgp MCQ (SBA): Major depressive disorder

A 24-year-old man presents with low mood, anhedonia, poor sleep and reduced appetite for 6 weeks. He denies suicidal intent but has passive thoughts that life is not worth living. There are no psychotic features or substance use. What is the most appropriate initial management?