Treating depression

A recent article (Irish Examiner, Feb 22) gives the impression that GPs are missing the opportunity to prevent suicides because the average suicide victim has seen their GP four times in the year before their death.

Firstly, this is not news. It has been known for at least 20 years. Secondly, suicide is often a spontaneous decision and the four visits could have been about mundane matters such as flu, sick notes, vaccinations, etc. GPs in Ireland are frequently accused of over-diagnosing and over-treating depression, rather than under diagnosing it.

As both opposing points of view cannot be correct, it is probable that we are actually looking after our patients with depression quite appropriately.

John Madden

Retired GP

Carndonagh

Co Donegal