Approximately what percentage of patients with a first episode of depression are at risk for relapse at some time in their lifetime?

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Multiple Choice

Approximately what percentage of patients with a first episode of depression are at risk for relapse at some time in their lifetime?

Explanation:
Major depressive disorder tends to be recurrent, so about half of patients who have had one episode will experience another at some point in their lifetime. This reflects the long-term pattern of the illness: once a first episode occurs, the risk of future episodes remains elevated and accumulates over time. Ongoing treatment after recovery, such as maintenance antidepressants or psychotherapy, can reduce the chance of relapse/recurrence. The other percentages are less consistent with typical long-term data: 25% underestimates the risk, while 75% or 90% would overstate it for most patients.

Major depressive disorder tends to be recurrent, so about half of patients who have had one episode will experience another at some point in their lifetime. This reflects the long-term pattern of the illness: once a first episode occurs, the risk of future episodes remains elevated and accumulates over time. Ongoing treatment after recovery, such as maintenance antidepressants or psychotherapy, can reduce the chance of relapse/recurrence. The other percentages are less consistent with typical long-term data: 25% underestimates the risk, while 75% or 90% would overstate it for most patients.

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