Anxiety and depression

Abstract

AbstractCase studies are presented in this chapter to illustrate the attitudes, skills, and knowledge required to diagnose and manage anxiety and depression in patients who have palliative care needs. The prevalence of, and risk factors for, anxiety and depression and the clinical significance of untreated mood symptoms in this patient population are discussed. Questions that are addressed in the case examples include: What psychiatric diagnoses could be considered for the patient? Is sadness of this severity a normal part of the process of dying? How should suicidality be assessed in patients with palliative care needs? How should a wish to hasten death be explored? Psychotherapeutic and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of anxiety and depression in this patient population are also considered.