Developing and Implementing a Depression Screening and Referral Protocol Among College Students

Depression is prevalent among college students but remains underrecognized and undertreated. Evidence supports universal depression screening among college students combined with follow-up systems to ensure appropriate diagnosis and management. Screening tools may include versions of the Patient Health Questionnaire, and follow-up systems may include following up with the current provider or referring the student to a mental health specialist. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to promote the identification of college students with depression and subsequent appropriate referrals.