Do patients with depression need to take medication during periods when they are not experiencing symptoms?

Generally, whether patients with depression should continue medication during remission depends on individual circumstances. Patients with mild depression and low risk of recurrence may not require continuous medication, whereas those at high risk of recurrence or with severe symptoms typically need long-term maintenance treatment, which should be determined through comprehensive evaluation by a physician.

For patients experiencing their first episode with mild symptoms that have fully resolved after treatment, if the doctor assesses their risk of recurrence as low, they may gradually taper off and discontinue medication under medical guidance. At this stage, psychological therapy should be combined to consolidate treatment effects, and relapse can be prevented through emotional regulation techniques and social support, avoiding unnecessary long-term medication use.

For patients who have experienced multiple recurrences, suffer from severe depression, or have a history of suicide attempts, stopping medication during symptom-free periods may easily lead to relapse. They should adhere to prescribed maintenance therapy with medications such as sertraline hydrochloride tablets, fluvoxamine maleate tablets, or mirtazapine tablets. Even when symptoms are stable, they must not discontinue medication without medical advice, as doing so could worsen their condition.

In daily life, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding staying up late or overexertion is essential. Family members should provide emotional support and encourage participation in enjoyable activities to relieve stress. Patients should attend regular follow-up appointments, proactively report their emotional status, and cooperate with doctors in adjusting treatment plans to reduce the risk of recurrence.