How long should antidepressants be continued?

An interval of 6 months has been thought to be the usual duration of antidepressant therapy. New recommendations, however, suggest that treatment should continue for up to 9 months after symptoms have resolved (continuation phase) to prevent relapse and for longer to help prevent recurrence (maintenance phase).

Is major depressive disorder lifelong?

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is potentially a long-term or even lifelong illness for many patients, and maintenance therapy is designed to prevent relapse in patients with recurrent depression who have achieved remission.

How long does dysthymia last?

Dysthymia, sometimes referred to as mild, chronic depression, is less severe and has fewer symptoms than major depression. With dysthymia, the depression symptoms can linger for a long period of time, often two years or longer.

Is it bad to be on antidepressants for a long time?

Some recent studies have suggested serious potential risks. People who used antidepressants had a 14\% higher risk of heart attacks and strokes and a 33\% greater risk of death, according to findings in a meta-analysis of 17 studies that was published in 2017 in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics.

How often should antidepressants be reviewed?

Management. Patients should be reviewed every 1–2 weeks at the start of antidepressant treatment. Treatment should be continued for at least 4 weeks (6 weeks in the elderly) before considering whether to switch antidepressant due to lack of efficacy.

What is the difference between clinical depression and major depressive disorder?

Depression ranges in seriousness from mild, temporary episodes of sadness to severe, persistent depression. Clinical depression is the more-severe form of depression, also known as major depression or major depressive disorder.

Does dysthymia ever go away?

If you think you may have dysthymia, it’s essential to seek help. Seeing a mental health professional is the first step to recovery. Taking the time to go to therapy is an investment in your health and well-being; the condition will not go away on its own.

Is MDD a disability?

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) represents a leading cause of disability.