A model based on the course of major depressive disorder

The course of anxiety disorders can be described using a model based on the course of major depressive disorder. Treatment is divided into three phases: acute, continuation, and maintenance.

During treatment, patients may show a response, followed by remission, and eventually recovery. However, episodes can reappear. A relapse is defined as an episode of an anxiety disorder that occurs within six months after either response or remission. A recurrence is an episode that occurs after six months following response or remission.