Prevalence of mental disorders in the small-town--rural region of Traunstein (Upper Bavaria).

The prevalence rate of mental disorders in the population is important to the overall planning of improved psychiatric care services. A prevalence study of 1,536 probands conducted in three communities in the county of Traunstein, Upper Bavaria, revealed that 18.6% of the population were in need of treatment. The results are presented according to sociodemographic characteristics, and ways of improving the care of the mentally disturbed are discussed. Primary emphasis is placed on improving the competence of general practitioners.