Q Can depression be cured with treatment? How long does it take?
A For a first episode, 60 to 70% of people improve with faithful SSRI treatment. It usually takes 2 to 6 weeks for the medication to take effect, and maintenance treatment for 6 to 12 months or more after symptoms resolve is important for relapse prevention.
Detailed Answer
The treatment response rate for a first episode of major depressive disorder is about 60 to 70%. SSRIs begin to show effects from 2 to 4 weeks after starting and reach full effect at 6 to 8 weeks. Even after symptoms disappear, maintenance treatment for 6 to 12 months or more is needed to lower the relapse rate. The more relapses recur, the higher the risk of becoming chronic.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment plays a supporting role in shortening the recovery period. When sleep, appetite and energy recover first, mood also improves more quickly. We explain the period until full functional recovery in stages and proceed while confirming the small signs of recovery together.
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