Stressful life situations that might cause a relapse in depression include losing one's work, losing a friendship, losing a loved one, and splitting up with a romantic relationship, according to a study. After a significant life stressor, it's normal to feel depressed, angry, or even irritated, but if these feelings last longer than two weeks, you may be depressed.
Fremont, CA: Major depression usually is not a singular episode. Research indicates that a significant number of individuals with depression who have received therapy and shown some improvement may discover that their symptoms return before going into a longer-lasting remission. Experts refer to this as a relapse.
Approximately 50% of those receiving therapy for depression or anxiety may relapse within a year, with the majority happening within six months.
Relapsing into depression can make it difficult to recover completely because emotions of helplessness, guilt, and shame build up and deter you from getting the support you need. To enable them to offer support and assistance, you must discuss your symptoms—even those worsening—with your doctor or a mental health specialist as soon as possible.
Understand that depression is a personal illness with unique causes that might alter over time. However, relapse is frequently associated with a few of these:
Medication Changes
It is common to ask your doctor to try different drug combinations or dosages if your present therapy doesn't seem to be helping after trying it for a while. However, remember that both of these actions—stopping your therapy entirely or doing so—can result in a relapse.
It's crucial to let antidepressants take at least four weeks to start working before requesting a fresh prescription from your doctor. The equilibrium of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphin levels in your body—chemicals important in mood, pain management, and overall well-being—can be upset by a prescription change.
