Patient should be informed about the medical model of depression (e.g. depression as a serious disorder, a disorder comparable to other disorders in medicine, depression as treatable).
Relatives should be involved, contingent on the patient's permission.
Discussion of lifestyle issues, such as daily routine, social supports, and substance misuse.
Issue sick certificates only if it is unavoidable e.g. in severe depression. The loss of the structure of working life can have negative impact on depressive symptoms in many patients.
Make a follow-up appointment for two weeks later, sooner if side effects of antidepressants are anticipated.
