This review summarizes the importance of timely and appropriate screening, diagnosis and treatment of depression in people with chronic illness, and particularly with respect to diabetes. Despite the recognized importance of this co-morbid condition, an estimated 50% of patients remain undiagnosed
and an even greater proportion is left untreated . Self-assessment questionnaires can dramatically improve
depression detection rates. Complementing such screening with assessments of psychological distress can have an additional and complementary impact on individual self-care. The choice of screening questionnaire should also consider factors such as ease of implementation: quick, non-invasive and sensitive measures that directly link disease severity with management.