Individuals with depression who received both antidepressant medication and psychotherapy as well as timely check-ups were more likely to respond quickly to treatment, according to a study in Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice.The study was based on results from a clinic using measurement-based care (MBC)—especially changes in Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores over time—to assess remission and treatment response.
Why It’s Relevant
Major depression is highly prevalent in the United States, affecting an estimated 21 million adults annually, yet most patients with depression do not achieve remission. While numerous studies have identified biological or environmental factors that may influence treatment response, very few have done so involving clinics using MBC—a systematic approach that uses validated rating scales and questionnaires to quantitatively evaluate patient progress.
By the Numbers
- Researchers examined the electronic health records (EHRs) of 4,778 patients with depression ages 12 and older. All patients had a baseline PHQ-9 score of greater than nine and at least one follow-up measurement.
- Overall response (reducing PHQ-9 score by at least 50%) and remission (PHQ-9 score under five) rates were 46.3% and 28.2%, respectively. Median times to response and remission were 12 months and 29 months, respectively.
- Providing medication along with psychotherapy was associated with a faster treatment response, as was conducting a follow-up PHQ-9 within four to nine months.
- Timely PHQ-9 follow-up was also linked with faster remission, though combined treatment was not. Patients with lower baseline PHQ-9 scores were also more likely to experience faster remission.
- Among various comorbidities assessed, only PTSD was linked with slower recovery and remission.
The Other Side
This observational study using EHRs could not determine a causal association between the various factors and response/remission rates. Additionally, the researchers didn’t have information on rates of completed treatment and couldn’t account for differences in specific treatment dosages or therapeutic approaches.
Takeaway Message
“The association between timely follow‐up (4-9 months) and better outcomes likely reflects improved treatment adherence, a finding that extends to racially and ethnically minoritized low‐income individuals,” the researchers said. “Similarly, the finding that comorbid PTSD worsens depression outcomes aligns with evidence that PTSD and mood disorders mutually exacerbate each other.”
Related Information
Source
Andres R. Schneeberger, et. al. Clinical characteristics associated with response and remission from depression using measurement‐based care.” Research Psychiatry and Clinical Care. Published June 16, 2026. doi.org/10.1176/appi.prcp.20250158
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