Final answer:
The STAR*D study evaluated the effectiveness of different treatment options for depression. Medication and psychotherapy were found to have similar efficacy overall, and failure of initial treatment increased the likelihood of subsequent treatment failures. Patients with more severe depression and chronic episodes were less likely to achieve remission with initial treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The STAR*D (Sequence Treatment Alternatives for Depression) study was a landmark research study conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of various treatment options for depression. The study aimed to determine which treatments work best for different patients and to identify predictors of response to different interventions.
The study found:
- Medication and psychotherapy had similar efficacy in treating depression overall.
- Failure of the initial treatment increased the likelihood of subsequent treatment failures.
- Patients with more severe depression and chronic episodes were less likely to achieve remission with initial treatments.