The NIMH Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) was the largest “real world” study of difficult-to-treat depression ever conducted. The study found for patients with incomplete response to treatment, 70% eventually improved, but that it often took several trials of different antidepressants to find the medication that worked best. If you are on depression medications but not getting better, ask your doctor whether it is an option for you to switch medications or to have psychotherapy. For questions and answers about the STAR*D Study, visit this site.