2 May 2009
A Mental Health Foundation analysis of the latest NHS data shows a marked geographical pattern in antidepressant prescribing rates in Primary Care Trust (PCT) areas throughout England. The figures reveal that 22 of the 25 highest prescribing PCT areas are in the north of England, while 23 of the lowest 25 prescribers are in the London area.
Prescribing rates also vary significantly with the highest ranking PCT, Blackpool, prescribing at more than three times the rate of the lowest, Kensington and Chelsea. In the three month period, July to September 2008, in Blackpool, 295 prescriptions were issued for every 1000 people in the area, while in Kensington and Chelsea the rate was 85 prescriptions per 1000.
Prescription rates were also compared to each area’s level of deprivation. The data shows that in many highly deprived areas there are relatively low levels of antidepressant prescribing, particularly in London. According to the charity, this does not mean that people living in those areas are not experiencing depression and anxiety.
Possible explanations for the variation in prescribing rates include:
- Availability of alternative treatments – many GPs often would like to be able offer their patients talking therapies or exercise therapy for depression and anxiety problems, but local availability is often limited, meaning that some GPs prescribe antidepressants because it is the only option available to them
- Local clinical practice – some areas may have more of a antidepressant prescribing culture than others
- Cultural difference, some groups – including some ethnic groups – are less likely to seek help from their GP for depression or anxiety
Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“Our analysis has uncovered a remarkable difference between the north and south of England when it comes to the prescribing of antidepressants. Stereotypes about it being ‘grim up north’ are not enough to explain the difference as some of England’s most deprived areas are in London, where prescribing rates can be seen to be much lower.
This pattern definitely needs further investigation, and PCT managers may want to look at their own position in the table and ask a few questions. People should be offered a range of treatment options for depression and other common mental health problems, not just antidepressants, which can have unpleasant side effects for some people.”
Overall antidepressant prescription rates in England have nearly doubled in the last ten years. Antidepressant prescriptions in English PCTs increased on average by 2% in the first two quarters of the last financial year (2008-2009). Only nine of 152 PCTs saw a reduction in the number of prescriptions.
ENDS
Notes to editors
For more information please contact the Mental Health Foundation press office on 020 7803 1130/1128 or sloveland@mhf.org.uk
The Mental Health Foundation (www.mentalhealth.org.uk) uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
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