| Abstract: | Comments on two review papers by Koerner et al (see record 2004-17185-001) and by Roberge et al (see record 2004-17185-002): one examining the economic burden of anxiety disorders, and the other the economic benefit of cognitive behaviour therapy for anxiety disorders. It is evident from both these papers that Canadian data on the direct and indirect costs of treating and not treating anxiety disorders are lacking and sorely needed. In addition to demonstrating the importance of addressing cost-related issues in Canadian mental health research, the authors of these papers present basic concepts of economic evaluation. They also identify the areas more in need of cost analysis and discuss the implications of the Canadian findings for health-care policy and research in Canada. Overall, the two articles have the potential of convincing Canadian psychologists to become more active in cost research and, thus, to contribute to advocacy efforts for better mental health services in Canada. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
