My personal experience to give you a little reference is I have been on and off meds for number of yrs first time I was on serzone for approx year then off meds for 10 yrs then back on another celexa for 8 yrs.. I am currently off again trying to manage without meds I am choosing to go back on in the fall if I don't improve back to a more functional level as I still have many symptoms but it's always easier during summer. I suffer from SAD on top of anxiety depression in the winter. One thing I will say I have come farther in the 8 yrs with meds conquering my agoraphobia , panic anxiety disorder, depression while learning CBT and had a life than I did without meds.. Everyone is so unique and different approaches and results are just as unique. To me i am for what works a person and let's them lead the best quality of life possible. I hope your son finds some relief soon and try not to worry about if he will be on meds long term. Most important thing is supporting him while he gets back to wellness.