Clinical Manual for Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychotic Depression

Psychotic depression is a dangerous and debilitating illness that, tragically, often has fatal consequences. Studies indicate that between 16% and 54% of all depressed adults suffer from a psychosis. While this condition is completely treatable, thousands of cases remain misdiagnosed or overlooked because of a lack of interest and awareness among clinicians, the pharmaceutical industry, and the National Institute of Mental Health. As the first comprehensive guide to cover assessment, treatment, and management of patients with psychotic depression, Clinical Manual for Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychotic Depression, by Dr. Anthony Rothschild, is an invaluable resource for both clinicians and students. Drawing on his own experience in clinical care and careful consideration of the existing medical literature, Dr. Rothschild systematically describes the history, epidemiology, and possible biological causes of psychotic depression and outlines various approaches for diagnosis and assessment. He then offers a practical guide for individualized treatment strategies for psychotic depression, such as electroconvulsive therapy, psychotherapy, and recent breakthroughs in pharmacologic treatment. In addition, Dr. Rothschild identifies issues of care and management for specific patient populations and mdash;including seniors, adolescents, women in the postpartum, and patients at risk for suicide and mdash;in a variety of treatment settings.Each chapter includes the following features to emphasize the data and further enhance learning: Detailed tables and charts Key clinical points that summarize the main ideas of the chapter A recommended reading list of books and periodicals that address similar topics Analysis and review of relevant clinical studies Dr. Rothschild has spent more than 25 years treating patients with psychotic depression and studying the challenges inherent in diagnosing and managing this serious disorder. His findings are compiled in this easy-to-read, evidence-based manual that can benefit clinicians at all levels of training, including psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists, internists, family and general practitioners, nurses, social workers, and clinical students. While much remains to be discussed regarding the nature of psychotic depression as a distinct illness, the existing knowledge about this condition is too significant to be ignored. The only comprehensive manual of its kind, Clinical Manual for Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychotic Depression is an important reference for any psychiatric setting.