RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Sexual dysfunctions are common in depression but are often underreported and the misconceptions about sexual functioning are highly prevalent. Medications used to treat depression can also cause impairments in sexual functioning. Hence, we decided to study the prevalence and types of problems in sexual functioning, sexual myths, and misconceptions in depressed males and compare it with the general population, along with the changes in depression and sexual functioning after treatment with escitalopram. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 56 depressed males diagnosed as per the International Classification of Diseases 10 criteria and 60 males from the general population were recruited after their informed consent. Beck Depression Inventory, the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale, the International Index of Erectile Functioning, and a questionnaire to assess myths and misconceptions were used for assessment. The patient group was treated with escitalopram and all the above scales were re-administered after 6 weeks. RESULTS: Most of the patients had mild-to-moderate grades of depression. Sexual dysfunctions were seen in 62.5% of the patient group. Significant differences were seen with decreased sexual desire, orgasmic problems, and overall dissatisfaction in the patient group. Depression was found to be significantly associated with sexual functioning. Myths about masturbation and penile size and shape were higher in the depressed population. After treatment with escitalopram, there was an improvement in depression and satisfaction with intercourse and overall sexual life. CONCLUSIONS: Mental health-care professionals, must inquire regarding sexual functioning sensitively, ensure that they psycho-educate those with misconceptions, and be watchful for changes in sexual functioning when they prescribe antidepressants.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Journal clubs (JCs) teach participants how to critically read and assimilate materials published in journals. Electronic JCs (eJCs) provide a similar platform through internet groups, allowing members to participate in and review JC activities as well as JC archives in their free time. METHODS: We describe the operations and the successes of eJCIndia, to our knowledge the first eJC in India in the field of mental health. eJCIndia was started for capacity building in teaching and research competence in the field. RESULTS: eJC India, with >400 members comprising academic psychiatrists and postgraduate students, is now 3 years old. eJCIndia conducts about a hundred activities a year; there is active participation from the membership. Activities include posting of educational materials of interest to the group; seeking and receiving guidance on academic and practical matters of interest to the group; providing and receiving training on how to review research manuscripts submitted to journals for consideration for publication; learning how to critically review published journal articles for strengths, limitations, and applications; and learning how to design studies, analyze data, and prepare manuscripts for publication. The activities of eJCIndia have resulted in the publication of about 20 articles and in the development of several research collaborations, including one multicenter study. CONCLUSIONS: The eJCIndia model can be replicated across medical disciplines in India and elsewhere. It may be the most efficient means for manpower development and capacity building in academic and research competence, given the inequitable geographical distribution of academic expertise in developing countries.