Table 1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria as applied by the general practitioner* or research nurse^†

Established diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Type II or COPD*

Age 60 years and over*

Community dwelling*

Minor depression or mild to moderate major depression according to MINI and HDRS criteria^†

Completed informed consent^†

Exclusion criteria:

Treatment with antidepressants*^†

Severe major depression*^†

Major psychiatric problems (bipolar depression, schizophrenia, suicidal risk)*^†

Current psychosocial/psychiatric treatment*

Serious cognitive problems (demential syndrome)*

On waiting list for nursing home*

Bedridden*

Recent loss of spouse (< 3 months)*