Depression: symptoms and treatment
डिप्रेशन / अवसाद
Depression is a common, treatable medical condition — not a weakness or a lack of willpower. It affects mood, sleep, appetite, energy and the ability to enjoy life.
With the right combination of counselling and, when needed, medicines, most people recover fully and return to work, studies and family life.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Sad, empty or irritable mood most of the day
- Loss of interest in work, hobbies or people
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Tiredness and low energy even after rest
- Change in appetite or weight
- Poor concentration and indecision
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
- Thoughts that life is not worth living
Causes
- Changes in brain chemistry and stress-response systems
- Family history of depression or other mental illness
- Major life stress — loss, conflict, debt, exams, unemployment
- Physical illness (thyroid, diabetes, chronic pain), alcohol or drug use
- After childbirth, in old age, or with long-term loneliness
Risk factors
- A previous episode of depression, or depression in a parent or sibling
- Long-term illness, chronic pain, thyroid problems or after a stroke or heart attack
- Alcohol or drug use
- Loneliness, conflict at home, money problems, unemployment
- Pregnancy and the months after childbirth
How it is diagnosed
- A detailed interview about mood, sleep, appetite, energy, interest and thoughts over the past weeks
- Asking about past high-energy phases, so that bipolar disorder is not missed
- Screening questionnaires such as the PHQ-9 to measure severity and track progress
- Blood tests (thyroid, haemoglobin, vitamin B12, sugar) when the history suggests a physical cause
Classification: ICD-10 F32, F33 · ICD-11 6A70, 6A71Single depressive episode / recurrent depressive disorder.
Treatment options
- 1Detailed assessment, including screening for thyroid, anaemia and other medical causes when needed
- 2Psychotherapy such as CBT to change negative thinking and rebuild routine
- 3Antidepressant medicines when depression is moderate or severe — non-addictive and started at a low dose
- 4Sleep, exercise and activity planning
- 5Regular follow-up until full recovery, then safe, gradual tapering of medicines
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT): noticing and changing hopeless thinking patterns
- Behavioural activation: planning small, rewarding activities to restart the day
- Interpersonal and problem-solving therapy for grief, conflict or life changes
Guidance for family
- Depression is an illness, not laziness. Avoid saying "just think positive" or "pull yourself together".
- Help with small routines — a walk together, regular meals, reminders for medicines.
- Take any talk of death seriously. Ask directly and gently; asking does not put the idea in their mind.
- Look after yourself too — caring for someone with depression is tiring.
When to see a psychiatrist
- Symptoms last more than two weeks
- Work, studies or relationships are suffering
- Any thoughts of self-harm — seek help the same day
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Are antidepressants addictive?
No. Antidepressants do not cause addiction. They should be stopped gradually under a doctor's guidance, not suddenly.
How long does treatment take?
Many people feel better in 2–6 weeks. Medicines are usually continued for 6–12 months after recovery to prevent relapse.
Can depression be treated online?
Yes. Assessment, counselling and prescriptions for depression work well by video consultation.
Related conditions
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- Depression in men: the hidden signs families missAnger, drinking, overwork and silence can be how depression shows up in men. Learn the signs and how to start the conversation.Read →
- Antidepressant myths and factsDo antidepressants cause addiction? Will they change my personality? Common myths answered simply, so you can make an informed choice with your doctor.Read →
- How long does depression treatment take?What to expect week by week, why improvement is gradual, and why continuing treatment after you feel better prevents relapse.Read →
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.