A new national survey about depression has just launched. Depression affects 1 in 10 adults in any year, and can have debilitating consequences. We know that research can improve lives - improve diagnosis, treatments, care and prevention. But who decides what to research? What would make the most difference to people’s lives?

There is no one better to help inform research than people affected. This survey gives people with depression, who are rarely consulted, a unique chance to be involved in setting the research agenda.

We know that research has huge potential. Fundamental research into the causes of depression can shed insight to what is happening the in brain during the condition. Clinical trials can test new and better treatments. Social research can improve access and availability of treatments and support. But how should research be funded? With limited resources, who decides what is the most important? 

This unique project brings together major organizations who represent and advocate for those with depression. Together the partners are promoting a national survey to uncover the unanswered questions about depression. All the unanswered questions will be gathered and ranked into lists of top ten priorities. This is done using an established process that gives equal weight to the voices of patients, carers and clinicians.

The lists of top tens will be then promoted to researchers and research funders. The aim is not to replace work that is being done. Researchers have vital insight into their fields of work, and we should not attempt to replace that. Rather, we want to give researchers the chance to connect with people their work can affect – something that rarely happens.

Take part and submit your questions about depression at www.depressionarq.org.