The prevention of depression: Current research and practice

In 1984, a National Institute of Mental Health public information pamphlet titled Depression: What We Know stated that “In general, the onset of a clinical depression cannot be prevented” (Lobel & Hirschfeld, 1984, p. 4). This paper examines the current evidence on this question. After the scope of depression prevention research has been specified, studies focused on preventing clinical episodes of depression, preventing high symptom levels, and reducing symptom levels in high-risk groups will be reviewed. This will represent what has been done to date in terms of preventive interventions. Next, several research areas that have potential contributions to make in the quest for future depression prevention strategies will be explored.