Why Is Depression More Treatable When Done So Early in the Disorder, Not Later?

Question by crashtst: Why is depression more treatable when done so early in the disorder, not later?
It’s always said “that it’s more treatable to treat depression early on as opposed to someone who has had it -untreated – for years, and THEN seeks help.” Why is this? Biologically, is there any sense to this, ala the brain “re-orders” itself, re-orders blood flow, etc. which becomes status quo if left untreated? anyone?
It’s written everywhere, “Early detection of depression increases its treatability.” (there I go making up words! 🙂 )

But I wonder WHY this is true? Does long-term untreated depression (dysthymia, etc.) change the brain SO MUCH, that in a way, the brain “can’t remember” what normal is? Cerebral blood flow changes, brain regions lose mass, “bad” neuronal connections are made, etc. —-> IS THIS WHY LATE DETECTION OF DEPRESSION IS MORE DIFFICULT TO TREAT?

Best answer:

Answer by rodii
because it has spread more and manifested for a while.

Answer by C Sunshine
Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent
is the DSM-IV description of ongoing chronic depression that becomes more difficult to work with.
Are you looking for help?
Or information?

Try the google scholar. You may find biological answers.

God bless.

An example:
http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/reprint/160/8/1516.pdf


 

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