Australian Genetics of Depression Study

Aim

The Australian Genetics of Depression Study aims to find:

• Genetic markers common to people who have experienced depression, compared to those who have not; an
• Genetic markers common to people who respond well to anti-depressant medication, compared to those who do not.

Participation involves

The Australian Genetics of Depression Study aims to find:

• Genetic markers common to people who have experienced depression, compared to those who have not; and
• Genetic markers common to people who respond well to anti-depressant medication, compared to those who do not.

Eligibility criteria

• Over 18 years of age
• Have been treated for clinical depression in the past; or are currently being treated for clinical depression

Description of the Study

The Australian Genetics of Depression Study aims to identify the genetic risk factors associated with clinical depression, and how a person’s genes influence their risk of developing depression and their response to treatment.

The Australian Genetics of Depression Study, which is the Australian arm of an international study created to understand the genetics of depression, is recruiting Australian adults – aged 18 and above – who have been treated for clinical depression.

Clinical depression is a common mental illness, often referred to as depression, which will affect almost one in five people during their lifetime. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2020, clinical depression will impose the second highest burden of any disease in Australia and other advanced countries.