Description and evaluation of the Iowa Depression Awareness, Recognition, and Treatment Program.
OBJECTIVE
The National Institute of Mental Health developed the Depression Awareness, Recognition, and Treatment Program to provide up-to-date information and training to health, mental health, and social service professionals regarding the identification and treatment of depression. This study was undertaken to evaluate a series of these programs for professionals who provide services to rural residents in the Midwest.


METHODS
The 18 2-day training programs were attended by a total of 1,221 participants, physicians, psychologists, social workers, and nurses. Participants' knowledge regarding depression was assessed both before and after each program. Practice characteristics and perceived ability to assess and treat depression were assessed. Finally, 6-month follow-up evaluations of the usefulness of the training to the participants were undertaken.


RESULTS
Following the programs, participants evidenced significant increases in levels of knowledge of depression and a high degree of satisfaction with most elements of the program. Six-month follow-up evaluations indicated a continued positive evaluation of the program.


CONCLUSIONS
These outcomes suggest that the goals of the Depression Awareness, Recognition, and Treatment Program were met and provide support for the wider dissemination of these training programs.
O'Hara
M W
MW
Department of Psychology, University of Iowa, Iowa City 52242, USA.
Gorman
L L
LL
Wright
E J
EJ
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003156:Community Mental Health Services; D003479:Curriculum; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D004493:Education / Q000592:standards*; D004496:Education, Continuing / Q000592:standards*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006040:Goals; D006281:Health Occupations / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012424:Rural Population; D013664:Teaching Materials; D000078329:Workforce