Should adult neurologists play a role in the management of the most common psychiatric comorbidities? Practical considerations

Abstract

Despite the high prevalence and negative impact of psychiatric comorbidities on the life of adults with epilepsy, significant unmet mental health care need exists because of a variety of factors, including poor access to mental health care providers. A potential solution to address access barriers is neurologist-driven diagnosis and management of common psychiatric conditions in epilepsy, of which mood and anxiety disorders are the most common. In this manuscript, patient selection criteria and practical treatment strategies are outlined for common mood and anxiety disorders that can be safely managed by neurologists. This article is part of the Special Issue "Obstacles of Treatment of Psychiatric Comorbidities in Epilepsy".

Keywords: Anxiety; Depression; Epilepsy; Neurologist; Psychiatric comorbidity; Treatment.