However, approximately 25 to 33 percent of those untreated will continue to have some symptoms and associated difficulty with daily life that can linger for months or years. Some people may only have a single episode of depression. However, more than 50 percent of those affected will experience another episode termed recurrent depression. Left untreated, this represents a chronic disease, with each episode increasing the risk for another bout of the disease. Seventy percent of those who have two episodes can expect to have a third, while 90 percent of individuals experiencing three episodes will have a fourth episode.
Treatment typically consists of a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
In the most severe cases, treatment may include electroconvulsive therapy or hospitalization. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.