What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with atypical depression?
What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with atypical depression?
Depression is a serious medical condition with serious potential outcomes if left untreated including:
- Increased risk of suicide
- Worsening of medical illness
- Increased conflict in relationships
- Increased risk of substance abuse
- Increased missed time and loss of effort at work
However, with appropriate treatment, 70 to 80% of individuals with a major depressive disorder can greatly improve their symptoms, although as many as 50% of patients may not respond to the initial treatment trial.