Significance of Early Recognition of Somatic Symptoms of Depression in General Practice: A Case Report

In primary health care centers somatic symptoms of depression usually dominates over psychological presentation. In Pakistan, before seeking help of a proper qualified medical doctors, people living in rural areas generally get advice from faith healers and local hakims (Unani medicine man in East). We have presented the case of a 37-year-old housewife with medically unexplained symptoms. The case highlights the contribution of GPs in managing the psychiatric disorders under limited resources. Moreover the impact of locally devised methods of treatment on the outcome of mental disorders.

Method of Collecting the Case Information: This information has been based on general practice at outpatient setting of a 25-bed hospital situated at rural Punjab, Pakistan.