Use of general practice services 5 years after an episode of mental illness: case-control study using electronic records.

Background: Depression, anxiety, and emotional distress occur frequently and are usually treated in general practice. Little has been reported about the long-term course of these conditions and the long-term use of medical services.

Aim: To follow up patients with depression, anxiety, and emotional distress in general practice for 5 years and examine the length and number of index episodes, prescribing behaviour, and the use of services in general practice.