Preventing Recurrent Depression Using Cognitive Therapy With and Without a Continuation Phase

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Abstract
PATIENTS WHO have recovered from recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD) face an 80% rate of recurrence in the absence of prophylactic treatment.1 To reduce risk, psychopharmacologists prescribe continuation-phase antidepressant medication to prevent relapse (ie, the index episode continued) and maintenance-phase medication to prevent recurrence (ie, a new episode distinct from the index episode). In contrast, continued preventive therapy is not routine practice after response to the acute phase of depression-specific psychosocial interventions.