There are three stages of depression treatment. The goal of treatment in the acute phase is the complete elimination of depressive symptoms; the goal of treatment in the consolidation phase is to maintain the good therapeutic results already obtained; and the goal of treatment in the maintenance phase is to prevent relapse, restore social functioning and successfully cope with stimuli and stresses that arise in life. The achievement of the goals of the former phase is the basis for the latter phase. There are several antidepressant drugs, including the relatively new 5-hydroxytryptamine reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), 5-hydroxytryptamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and traditional tricyclic antidepressants. Common adverse effects of these medications include nausea, constipation, sleep problems, and problems with sexual function, which can be managed by reducing the dose, increasing the medication to counteract the adverse effects, and switching to other medications. Depression is now considered to be a disorder that tends to recur. After the first episode of depression, the medication should be continued for 6 months to 1 year after the depressive symptoms have cleared. If there have been two episodes, it is better to keep taking the medication for 1~2 years after the cure. If there are more than 3 recurrent episodes, long-term medication is recommended. If the medication is stopped prematurely, it may lead to another episode of depression. At this time, the effect achieved with the same treatment method as before may not be as good as before. Abrupt discontinuation of medication may also lead to withdrawal reactions and a series of psychophysiological manifestations, such as headache, insomnia, nausea, anxiety, etc. Therefore, discontinuing medication under medical supervision can reduce the risk of relapse, prevent and minimize discontinuation reactions.