hi john, welcome to PC

I think everyone is probably different. Some people have only one depressive episode in their lives, and some have several. I'm not sure if there is a way to really predict that you're officially "cured".

I read a book called Sunbathing In The Rain in which the author talked about her last depressive episode (she's had several throughout her life) and her theory is that the depression comes whenever her subconscious is trying to wake her up and realize something about herself or her life is wrong, like working too hard, dealing with self-confidence issues, letting go of the past, realizing she didn't like where she was living, etc. I doubt that it's necessarily true for everyone -- after all, depression is as much about brain chemistry as it is about emotional baggage -- but I like to think that my depression has "helped" me get a handle on a lot of negative things in my life that I let get out of control by forcing me to take some time out to sort through some of my problems; hopefully it will lift completely once I've completely managed to turn things around for myself. And if it comes back, well, I'll be ready and willing to listen.

It seems to me like you're in a really good place right now. Take advantage of it. Whether the depression returns or not, I hope you can cherish every good moment you have.