Being “cured” of depression typically means achieving remission, where symptoms greatly improve or disappear, and you can function well in daily life.
Think of it as cancer. Once you are cancer-free, you are considered in remission until there’s no sign of cancer on blood tests and imaging studies for five years from the date of the original diagnosis. Then, and only then, are you considered cured.
This is how to know when you’re considered “cured” or in remission:
When are you considered cured of depression?
Remission happens when depressive symptoms are minimal or gone for an extended period, typically at least 2 months, according to clinical guidelines.
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- Measurement
Tools like the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) or the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) are used to assess symptom levels, although many more exist.
Scores in the “normal” range often indicate remission.
Recovery is a broader term that implies remission lasting for 6 months or longer without relapsing.
Sustained recovery includes returning to everyday activities, maintaining relationships, and coping with stresses in life effectively.
Factors that could confirm recovery
You notice you’re enjoying life and feel hopeful about the future.
Friends or family may observe changes in your mood or energy level.
My best friends and family noted that my mood improved, my humor returned, and that I was going out more frequently.
Mental health professionals can confirm remission based on standardized criteria and their observations.
It should be noted that only a professional can truly confirm recovery or remission based on a standardized test.
Still, feedback from others and self-reflection can often provide surprisingly accurate estimations, especially when it comes from people who love and know us well.
Cautions about declaring “cured”
- Depression can recur even after long periods of remission. Staying cautious and maintaining healthy habits is essential to stave off relapses.
- Doctors may recommend ongoing therapy, medications, or check-ins to monitor your well-being if you have had a severe or recurrent depressive episode.
How to maintain recovery
Continue cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other supportive therapies to build long-term coping skills.
I can highly recommend going to a therapist since they’re educated in giving practical tips through an objective lens, allowing you to see things more clearly and accurately.
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, good sleep hygiene, and mindfulness can prevent relapses.
Be aware of potential triggers and practice stress-management techniques.
Social support is crucial for long-term mental health.
Conclusion
Being “cured” of depression means reaching a point where symptoms no longer affect your daily life, and you feel emotionally and physically well.
It’s a process that takes time, self-awareness, and sometimes ongoing management to give yourself the best chance of preventing relapses.
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