Quality standard

This quality standard covers the clinical assessment and management of depression in adults aged 18 and over. It describes high-quality care in priority areas for improvement.

Last reviewed: 29 June 2023

This quality standard was updated and replaced the previous version published in 2011. The topic was identified for update following a review of quality standards. The review identified updated guidance on depression in adults. For more information, see update information.

Next review: This guidance will be reviewed if there is new evidence that is likely to change the recommendations.

How to use NICE quality standards and how we develop them

Quality standards help you improve the quality of care you provide or commission. They apply in England and Wales (see the UK government website and Welsh government website). Decisions on how they apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland are made by ministers in the Scottish government and Northern Ireland Executive.

Find out how to use quality standards and how we develop them