At CHMC Dubai, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for depression tailored to each patient’s needs. Our approach combines medical expertise with compassionate care to help individuals regain emotional balance, improve daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
Dr. Gregor Kowal, a German-Board Certified Consultant in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, leads our depression treatment program. Having graduated from the prestigious University of Heidelberg, Germany, Dr. Kowal has served as Head of Department and Medical Director in leading psychiatric hospitals across Germany. His extensive clinical experience covers a wide range of mental health conditions, with a strong focus on depressive disorders.
Clinical depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is more than occasional sadness. When low mood, fatigue, and loss of interest persist for more than two weeks, it may signal a proper depressive disorder. Without timely care, depression can significantly affect relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. In severe cases, it can become life-threatening.
Our treatment for depression at CHMC in Dubai is designed to address both the psychological and physical aspects of the condition. We use a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle interventions, ensuring each treatment plan is adapted to the severity of symptoms and the individual’s circumstances.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Kowal at CHMC Dubai
Assessing Symptoms of Depression
In Dubai, depression affects many individuals, leading to emotional distress, exhaustion, and withdrawal from daily activities. Identifying symptoms early can make all the difference, as it allows people to seek professional help before the condition worsens.
When left untreated, depression can severely reduce quality of life and increase the risk of suicide. It also impacts physical health—people with depression are more likely to develop serious medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
The encouraging news is that with proper treatment for depression—whether through psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination—most people can experience full recovery.
Main Symptoms of Depression
- Persistent low mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Lack of energy or constant fatigue
Additional Symptoms May Include:
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Low self-esteem and confidence
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Excessive worry about the future
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased appetite
Physical Symptoms Associated with Depressive Disorder
Depression can also manifest in the body, leading to physical discomfort that may be mistaken for another illness. These somatic symptoms can be part of the diagnostic picture:
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Appetite changes, digestive discomfort, constipation, or diarrhoea
- Headaches or back pain
- Pressure in the throat or chest (“globus sensation”)
- Shortness of breath or heart rhythm disturbances
- Dizziness, blurred vision, or eye twitching
- Muscle tension or sharp pains
- Loss of sexual interest or sexual dysfunction
Diagnosing Depression at CHMC in Dubai
Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders, yet it can be challenging to diagnose. There are no blood tests or brain scans that confirm it. Instead, diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation.
Typically, at least two primary and two secondary symptoms must be present for a minimum of two weeks. Psychiatrists also consider the patient’s recent emotional history and the impact of symptoms on daily functioning. Physical complaints—such as heart palpitations or breathing difficulties—are also evaluated, as they can be linked to depression.
CHMC Dubai’s Therapeutic Approaches to Depression
At CHMC Dubai, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating depression. Because many depressive symptoms overlap with other mental and physical conditions, a careful assessment is essential before confirming the diagnosis.
We base our evaluations on internationally recognized criteria, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). This ensures accuracy and allows us to design a personalized treatment for depression that addresses both emotional and physical symptoms.
Our goal is not only to help patients recover from current symptoms but also to equip them with tools and strategies to maintain long-term mental health.
Steps in Diagnosing Depression
Recognizing depression isn’t always straightforward. Many people experience emotional numbness or struggle to describe their feelings. Others present with vague physical complaints—such as headaches, fatigue, or digestive discomfort—without realizing these could be symptoms of depression. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment for depression.
At CHMC Dubai, our process begins with a thorough psychiatric evaluation carried out by an experienced psychiatrist or psychologist. In some cases, the first step may be the simple but effective Two-Question Test, which can quickly indicate whether further assessment is needed.
The Two-Question Test
A quick screening tool often used in the early stages of assessment is the Two-Question Test:
- Have you frequently felt down, sad, or hopeless in the past month?
- Have you noticed a loss of interest or pleasure in activities you usually enjoy over the past month?
A “yes” to both questions suggests possible depression, prompting a more detailed evaluation of symptoms and their impact on daily life.
Initial Patient Conversation (Anamnesis)
The core of diagnosing depression lies in the conversation between the patient and the clinician. An open, honest discussion enables the psychiatrist or psychologist to assess the severity of symptoms and gain a clear understanding of the patient’s overall emotional state.
The conversation may follow a structured format with specific questions, or it may take a more open-ended approach—inviting the patient to share why they sought help, how they’ve been feeling, and what challenges they’re facing. Flexibility is important, as patients sometimes begin by discussing unrelated but significant life events or personal struggles.
During this exchange, clinicians also note subtle indicators: tone of voice, facial expressions, posture, and even clothing choices. A quiet voice, lack of emotional expression, or slouched posture can all signal depressive symptoms.
In complex cases—such as patients with severe medical conditions, coexisting mental disorders, or elderly individuals—speaking with family members or caregivers can provide valuable additional insights.
Physical Examinations and Routine Diagnostics
A physical exam is an important step in ruling out medical conditions that can mimic depression. This may include:
General Physical Exam
assessing overall health to identify possible contributing factors.
Neurological exam
checking for central nervous system disorders that could cause similar symptoms.
Laboratory Tests
Lab tests help evaluate the patient’s physical health before starting any medication as part of their treatment for depression. These results also serve as a baseline for monitoring progress and possible side effects.
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
An ECG is performed to detect any underlying heart conditions before beginning certain antidepressant medications. The initial ECG provides a reference point for future check-ups during treatment.
Additional Diagnostics
In cases involving severe mental health disorders—such as psychosis or bipolar disorder—further neurological investigations may be needed. These can include:
CT or MRI Brain Scans
Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are special types of examinations that allow detailed images of organs and body tissues, such as the brain. CT uses X-rays, while MRI works with the help of a strong magnetic field.
EEG (Electroencephalogram)
Electroencephalography, or EEG for short, is a diagnostic procedure used to record the brain’s electrical currents (changes in potential). These are displayed as brain waves on a graph, representing the combined electrical activity of the nerve cells. The actual result is called an electroencephalogram. The recording is made using electrodes placed on the scalp, which continuously detect, amplify, and record the brain’s potential fluctuations, known as brain waves.
By following these steps, CHMC Dubai ensures each patient receives a precise diagnosis and a personalized treatment for depression plan that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of the condition.
Clinical Treatment of Depression at CHMC Dubai
Depression can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or lifestyle. Sometimes it develops after a clear trigger, such as loss, stress, or major life change. In other cases, it appears without warning, leaving people confused and even guilty for feeling so low despite seemingly having “no reason.”
Therapy of depression is not a “quick fix.” The process of healing takes time. The most sucessful treatment modality for depression is the combination of medication with psychotherapy. In patients treated only “biologically”, i.e. with medication, the symptoms can appear again despite of using the same dosage of an antidepressant. The psychotherapy as a stand-alone method can be used only for treatment of mild depressive episodes.
Setting in Therapy for Depression
Depression is not a condition that can be effectively managed without professional help. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan must be established by a psychiatrist, who can guide the patient through each stage of recovery. Abruptly stopping prescribed medication—without medical supervision—carries a serious risk of triggering a depressive relapse. For this reason, any adjustments to dosage or changes in medication should always be discussed with the treating psychiatrist.
Patient’s Compliance with the Medication
Beyond the danger of relapse, suddenly discontinuing medication can lead to uncomfortable physical symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or sudden mood fluctuations. These side effects are largely avoidable when changes to treatment—whether reducing, switching, or stopping medication—are made gradually and under close psychiatric guidance.
Achieving the Full Recovery
Patients should also approach their recovery with patience and realistic expectations. It is important not to overestimate temporary improvements, as progress can sometimes be uneven. Even after a period of full recovery, occasional setbacks are possible. Recognizing this as a normal part of the healing process can help maintain perspective and prevent discouragement.
Therapy Phases of Depression
Modern treatment methods can often bring rapid relief from depressive episodes, helping patients regain stability and significantly improving their quality of life. Yet, depression is not always a one-time event. More than half of all cases tend to be recurrent or long-lasting, often because the underlying causes remain unresolved.
Each new episode raises the likelihood of another, and prematurely stopping treatment further increases the risk of relapse. The core of treatment usually consists of antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.
In general, the depression therapy depends on the stage of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. The following text outlines therapeutic approaches for the acute phase, the maintenance phase, and relapse prevention.
Therapy in the Acute Phase
The decision between outpatient care and hospitalization depends on several factors, including the severity and type of depression, as well as the individual’s risk of suicide. In cases of psychotic depression or when there is a high risk of self-harm, hospital admission is often the safest and most effective option. Treatment goals also shift according to the stage of the illness, with the acute phase requiring a particularly focused approach.
Starting the Treatment
Acute therapy should start as soon as the first signs of a severe depressive episode appear. This stage continues until the most distressing symptoms have eased significantly, which typically takes between four and eight weeks. During this time, the emphasis is not only on symptom relief but also on educating the patient about their condition, the treatment plan, and the role of medication in recovery.
The Psychoeducation
This process—known as psychoeducation—helps patients understand what to expect and how to actively participate in their own recovery. Maintaining close contact with the psychiatrist is essential, allowing questions to be addressed and treatment adjustments to be made when necessary. Patients are also encouraged to take their medication consistently, with the understanding that antidepressants often require several days to weeks before their benefits become noticeable.
Maintenance Managment of Depression
Maintenance therapy begins once the acute phase of depression has been brought under control. Its primary goal is to stabilize the patient’s mental health and reduce the risk of symptoms returning. A relapse refers to the reappearance of depressive symptoms before full recovery has taken place, whereas a recurrence occurs when symptoms return after the person has already regained their previous level of well-being.
Goals of Maintenance Therapy
This stage of treatment typically lasts at least four to six months, during which the focus is on maintaining stability and consolidating the progress made in earlier therapy. It involves continued use of prescribed medication, regular follow-up appointments, and ongoing support through psychotherapy when appropriate.
An important aspect of maintenance therapy is learning to recognize the early warning signs of a potential relapse and understanding how to respond to them. By developing effective coping strategies and maintaining a close therapeutic relationship with their psychiatrist or therapist, patients can greatly improve their chances of staying well and avoiding future episodes.
Relapse Prevention in Therapy of Depression
Prevention of recurrence begins once the patient’s mood has stabilized. The aim at this stage is to reduce the risk of another acute episode over the long term. How long relapse prevention should continue depends largely on the number and severity of previous depressive episodes. In most cases, patients are strongly advised not to stop their prescribed treatment without medical guidance. Establishing and maintaining a regular daily rhythm—balancing periods of rest with structured activity—can also provide important stability.
Role of Supportive Network in Prevention
Support from a partner or family members plays a significant role in this phase of treatment. Relatives benefit from being informed about the symptoms, treatment options, and long-term outlook through psychoeducation. With this understanding, they are better equipped to provide emotional support, encourage adherence to treatment, and help protect the patient from relapse.
Adjusting Treatment to the Severity of Depression
Treatment for depression is never one-size-fits-all. The best approach depends on accurately identifying the signs and symptoms through a thorough clinical assessment. Every case of depression is unique, varying in intensity, duration, and how it unfolds over time. Psychiatrists typically classify depression as mild, moderate, or severe, based on the number and persistence of both primary and secondary symptoms. Once the severity has been determined, the psychiatrist and patient work together to decide on the most suitable treatment plan. By tailoring treatment to the severity of symptoms, patients have a better chance of achieving full recovery and reducing the risk of relapse.
Mild Depressive Episode
can be managed with psychoeducation, emotional support, lifestyle adjustments, self-management strategies, and psychotherapy. Antidepressants may be used with caution, depending on individual circumstances.
Moderate Depressive Episode
may be treated with either psychotherapy or medication, with the choice depending on the patient’s response and comfort level.
Severe Depressive Episode
responds best to a treatment combining medication and psychotherapy, addressing both the biological and psychological aspects of the illness.
Consequences of Untreated Depression
Depression is not an illness that can be resolved overnight. Recovery from depression takes time, and progress should be evaluated carefully. Patients are encouraged to avoid placing too much weight on short-lived improvements, as temporary relief does not always indicate lasting change. Even after a full recovery, occasional setbacks can occur and should be seen as part of the healing process rather than a failure.
When depression goes untreated, it often traps individuals in a damaging cycle. Persistent symptoms can place significant strain on family relationships, friendships, and professional performance. These social and occupational impairments can be profound, and in many cases, they linger even after the depressive episode has ended. Over time, some individuals may turn to alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their distress, which can lead to additional health problems and make recovery even more difficult.
Medication Therapy for Depressive Disorders
Brain nerve cells use various neurotransmitters to transmit signals. While not all details are known, experts believe that in depression, the balance of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, adrenaline, dopamine or, glutamate are altered and some nerve connections are inhibited. They are different groups of medication influencing the neurotransmitters and used in treatment of depression. However, the main medication used in the treatment for depression are antidepressants.
Drug treatment with modern antidepressants dates back to the mid-1950s. Since then, research has produced a new class of antidepressants roughly every decade. These medications are used not only for depressive episodes—whether a single occurrence or recurring—but also for chronic and severe depression.
Main Categories of Antidepressants
- Non-selective, irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors)
- Selective, reversible monoamine oxidase A inhibitors (RIMAs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and tetracyclic antidepressants (TeCAs)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- So-called “atypical” antidepressants (NaRIs, DSAs, SNRIs, NaSSAs)
- Melatonergic antidepressants
Advantages and Disadvantages of Antidepressants
Antidepressants are highly effective, especially in the treatment of moderate to severe depression. They often begin to work within a few days to about two weeks, helping to reduce symptoms in a relatively short time. Different types of antidepressants target different symptoms: some have a calming effect and improve sleep, while others increase energy. This allows the psychiatrist to choose the most appropriate medication based on the patient’s specific condition.
However, antidepressants can also have drawbacks. Depending on the medication, side effects may include nausea, weight gain, constipation or diarrhea, drowsiness, or sexual problems. These effects are most common at the start of treatment. Around half of all patients experience mild, temporary side effects in the first four to six weeks.
It is also important to understand that antidepressants do not address the life problems that may have contributed to the depression, such as stress at work or difficulties in a relationship. Therefore, combining medication with psychotherapy is the most effective way to achieve a patient’s full recovery while at the same time reducing the risk of relapse.
For mild depression, herbal alternatives like St. John’s Wort may be used, but it has side effects and interacts strongly with other medications.
Managing Depression Treatment with Psychotherapy
In patients treated only “biologically,” i.e. with medication, the symptoms can appear again despite using the same dosage of the medication. Consequently, adding the psychotherapy is a necessary part of an effective treatment, improving by several times the chance for a full recovery.
Clinical psychologists offer psychotherapy, or “talk therapy”, and have degrees in psychology and significant postgraduate training. Psychologists avail themselves of evidence based psychotherapeutic treatment methods.
There are variety of psychotherapeutic methods. The majority of them belong to two psychotherapeutic branches: psychodynamic and behavioural therapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is the most frequently therapeutic method used in treatment for depression. CBT therapists consider behaviour as encompassing not only observable actions but also thoughts, emotions, and physical processes. They believe that behaviours are learned and can be modified, leading to the adoption of more constructive patterns.
Therapeutic Goals in CBT
are used not only for depressive episodes—whether a single occurrence or recurring—but also for chronic and severe depression.In CBT, patients collaborate with therapists to dissect specific problematic situations. Together, they examine why the patient reacts or feels in a certain way. These discussions incorporate the patient’s life history and current circumstances. They work together to develop and test potential solutions. The patients then evaluate these strategies in their daily life, sharing feedback in subsequent sessions. The therapeutic relationship is one of collaboration and equality, fostering the exploration of problematic behaviours and the exploration of new ones.
CBT also includes elements like psychoeducation (providing information about the condition and its treatment), exposure to feared situations (exposure therapy), and targeted skill-building (e.g., social skills, stress management, and relaxation techniques). CBT sessions usually occur weekly, providing consistent support and guidance.
Psychoanalysis in Treatment for Depression
Psychoanalysis the first method of psychotherapy used in treatment for depression, was developed by Sigmund Freud at the end of the 19th century. Freud’s psychoanalytical theory assumes that unconscious conflicts and past experiences, particularly from childhood, are the root cause of mental illnesses.
Goals of Psychoanalytical Therapy
Psychoanalysis delves deeply into patient’s unconscious. The therapist assists patients in recognizing these unconscious conflicts and their impact on the present life. Patients lie on a couch during sessions, without eye contact with the therapist, allowing them to focus on their thoughts, emotions, and inner imagery. Analytic psychotherapy typically spans multiple sessions per week and is a long-term endeavour.
From Psychoanalysis to Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Today the classical psychoanalysis is rarely used being replaced by its modifications such as analytical psychotherapy first used by C.G. Jung or various forms of so-called in-depth psychotherapy. This psychotherapy methods “lifted” the patient to the role of equality, abandoned the sofa and enhanced the active involvement of the psychotherapist.
Treatment of Depression with In-Depth Psychotherapy
In-depth psychotherapy, called also psychodynamic psychotherapy, which has its roots in psychoanalysis, differs from classical psychoanalysis in its duration, therapeutic principles, and overall goals. When used in the treatment for depression, it focuses on resolving current and active psychological conflicts rather than dwelling exclusively on the distant past.
Goals of In-Depth Psychotherapy
Through exploring early life experiences and recurring behavioral patterns, patients can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of their difficulties. In psychodynamic psychotherapy, therapists help uncover and activate unconscious strengths and abilities that can be used to address current challenges. Unlike traditional psychoanalysis, in-depth psychotherapy aims to reduce regressive tendencies—such as slipping back into earlier stages of personality development—while encouraging healthier coping strategies. While acknowledging the role of childhood experiences, psychodynamic psychotherapy also places strong emphasis on events happening in the “here and now.”
Treating Depression with Systemic Psychotherapy
Systemic psychotherapy—also known as family therapy—approaches depression by examining the network of relationships in which a person lives. It does not view the condition solely as an individual issue but as part of a broader family or social system. Depending on the situation, therapy may be conducted with the whole family, with a couple, or with the individual.
The aim is to strengthen each family member’s autonomy and self-esteem while improving communication and patterns of interaction. A key part of the process involves identifying and reshaping harmful relationship dynamics that may be contributing to the patient’s distress.
Treatment for Depression in Suicidal Patients
The most serious and tragic outcome of depression is suicide. Statistics show that between 10% and 15% of individuals with recurrent, severe depressive episodes die by suicide. Suicidal thoughts can emerge at any age, but they are particularly common among those facing severe psychosocial stress, such as divorce, isolation, or substance abuse.
In some cases, suicidal ideation arises during severe depressive episodes—often at the onset or toward the end—when mood is still low but energy levels have begun to return. This combination can be especially dangerous. Patients expressing suicidal thoughts require immediate hospital admission and intensive care under close psychiatric supervision to ensure their safety and begin appropriate treatment.
How to Prevent Depression
Depressed individuals who do not seek therapy often find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle. The condition strains family relationships, erodes friendships, and undermines work performance. These social and occupational difficulties can be profound and, in many cases, persist even after the depressive episode has ended. Faced with ongoing distress, some individuals turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope—choices that may offer temporary relief but ultimately worsen the situation. It is also important to remember that recovery from depression is rarely a straight path; depressive relapses can occur, and progress can feel uneven.
Reducing the risk of relapse requires a proactive and supportive approach.
Family Support in Preventing Depression
For relatives and close friends, understanding the true nature of depression is essential. Misconceptions—such as believing that the illness can be overcome simply through willpower—can do more harm than good. Well-intentioned but misguided “encouragement” may intensify feelings of guilt, deepen hopelessness, and aggravate symptoms. A lack of awareness among those closest to the patient can make recovery more difficult, while informed and empathetic family support can help create the stable environment needed to prevent relapse.
Key Points in the Therapy for Depression
According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020), depression—along with anxiety—is among the most common mental health disorders worldwide, affecting over 300 million people.
The first and most crucial step before beginning treatment for depression is making an accurate diagnosis. This involves distinguishing major depressive disorder (MDD) from other mental health conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Accurate recognition is often the bottleneck in the entire diagnostic and treatment process—only about half of all depressive disorders are correctly identified.
Of those cases that are diagnosed correctly, only half actually receive treatment. This means that just one in four people living with depression gets the professional help they need. The consequences of untreated depression can be devastating: between 10% and 15% of sufferers die by suicide, with men being three times more likely to take their own lives than women.
Effective treatment for depressive disorders requires a coordinated approach. A professional team—typically consisting of a psychiatrist and a psychologist—can provide the combination of medical and psychotherapeutic care necessary to help patients achieve recovery and restore their quality of life.
FAQ about Depression
In the below FAQs section we provide the answers to the most common concerns of our patients about depression.
What are the common symptoms of depression?
Depression symptoms in Dubai are similar to global patterns and include persistent sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and physical issues like headaches or digestive problems. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for seeking timely help.
Where can I seek treatment for depression in Dubai?
Dubai offers a range of options for depression treatment, including private clinics and government hospitals specialized in mental health care. For severe cases of depression you can seek help Al Amal Psychiatric Hospital or rashid Hospital in Dubai. Mild and moderate depression can be treated in private clinics such as CHMC.
Is depression treatment in Dubai covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans in Dubai now cover mental health services, including depression treatment. Check with your provider to confirm the extent of coverage for psychiatric consultations, therapy sessions, and medications.
I am feeling really depressed. Can you tell me if I should see the psychologist or the psychiatrist?
If you are having trouble functioning in daily life, eg. working, parenting, grooming, etc., or you have lost your ability to sleep, seek psychiatric care. For milder or more moderate feelings of depression psychotherapy from a psychologist will help you. If you are uncertain, our psychologists are qualified to assess your level of depression and will make a referral for a psychiatric assessment if needed.
How can I help someone with depression in Dubai?
Encourage them to seek professional help and provide emotional support. You can also connect them with local resources such as mental health clinics, or hospitals for crisis support, or reputable psychiatrists or psychologists specializing in depression treatment in Dubai.
I feel fatigued, anxious, and demotivated and not enjoy things as I used to. Do you think the counselling can help me get rid of the symptoms?
You obviously suffer of depression. You can visit one of our psychologists. After an interview and short test, the severity of the symptoms can be assessed. If the symptoms are not severe and don’t last long, counseling would be the method of choice. In some cases, the medication can be indicated at the beginning to increase the energy, motivation, and mood. Combined with counseling, the medication can be gradually removed.
What types of depression treatments are available in Dubai?
Treatments for depression in Dubai include:
- Psychotherapy (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy).
- Medication (e.g., antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs).
- Holistic Approaches (e.g., mindfulness, yoga, or lifestyle adjustments).
- Hospitalization for severe cases requiring intensive care.
Is depression curable or just treatable with medication?
Depression is a curable condition. However, untreated, it can develop into chronic, lifelong suffering. Therefore, it is critical for individuals with depression to engage in therapy as soon as possible. The state-of-the-art treatment for depression combines medication and psychotherapy. Medication can suppress the symptoms within a few weeks creating a sound foundation for the psychotherapy. However, medication alone will lose eventually its efficacy. On the other hand, psychotherapy used without medication wouldn’t be able to “unwind” severe depressive symptoms.
Are drugs the best treatment for depression?
Medications helps to quickly restore person’s functioning but it’s not healing depression per se. The purpose of treatment with antidepressants is to alleviate symptoms of severe depression, such as feeling down and not being capable to deal with social and professional obligations. They help to restore the sleep, lift the mood, and suppress the anxiety. In most of the cases depression is the effect of psychological malfunction due to accumulation of conflicts the individual is not aware of or feels incapable to solve. However, using only medication will not solve such problems by default. The individual needs time and guidance to find a suitable solution. Once such solution is found and implemented in individual’s life, the medication would be obsolete.
Is there a stigma around seeking help for depression in Dubai?
While awareness of mental health has improved in Dubai, some stigma remains. However, mental health professionals in Dubai prioritize patient confidentiality, and more people are becoming open to seeking help due to increased education and acceptance.
Yes, depression and anxiety are often related. While they are distinct mental health disorders, they frequently coexist and share common symptoms, such as excessive worry, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, experiencing one disorder can increase the risk of developing the other, and they often respond to similar treatment approaches.
What is the treatment for depression?
The treatment for depression typically includes a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Medications, such as antidepressants, can help rebalance brain chemicals. Lifestyle changes, like exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, also play a crucial role in managing depression.
Are depression rates in Dubai increasing?
Depression rates in Dubai as well as globally have been increasing over recent years. Factors such as societal pressures, economic stressors, and lifestyle changes contribute to this rise. Additionally, increased awareness and recognition of mental health issues may also play a role in the reported increase in depression rates.
Can depression be genetic?
Yes, depression can have a genetic component. Research suggests that individuals with a family history of depression are at a higher risk of developing the disorder themselves. Genetic factors can influence a person’s susceptibility to depression, but environmental and psychological factors also play significant roles in its development.
Will depression go away on its own?
The duration of depression varies widely among individuals, making it challenging to determine an average timeframe. However, it’s unlikely for depression to resolve without treatment. Addressing chronic depression typically involves a multifaceted approach, including medication, therapy, self-care practices, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Read More About Depression
- Self-Assessment Test for Depression
- Post Partum Depression
- Dysthymia. Diagnosis and Treatment
- Catatonic Depression
- Types of Depression
- Causes of Depression
- Depression caused by Physical Illnesses
- How Does Depression Develop
- Relaxation Techniques in Therapy for Depression
- Psychotherapy for Older Adults with Depression
- Feeling Depressed? Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation
