Major depressive disorder is a psychiatric disorder that encompasses a broad range of emotional, psychological, behavioral, and physical symptoms (Fava et al., 2004). The nurse in the hospital, office, school, or community setting can provide the essential elements of effective care for depression, including early detection by screening, medication teaching, depression education, teaching coping skills, and appropriate use of specialists and resources. Utilizing the nursing process, the nurse can provide comprehensive care to improve the depressed patient's physical and psychological well-being.