Depression Treatment

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Depression Treatment

Depression is not just occasional sadness it’s a medical condition that disrupts daily life. Dr. Naeem Aftab, a leading psychiatrist in Lahore, understands how overwhelming depression can feel. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite. In Pakistan, daily stress and social pressures can worsen symptoms, and many people mistakenly think feeling “down” is a weakness. In reality, millions of Pakistanis suffer from clinical depression, which requires professional care.

What Is Depression?

Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) is more than feeling sad. It causes severe symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily tasks. People with depression may feel hopeless, empty, or irritable for most of the day, nearly every day. They often lose interest in hobbies or socializing. Depression can happen to anyone young or old and it’s influenced by genetic, biological, and life factors. In our culture, stigma and misunderstanding often stop people from seeking help, but recognizing depression as a treatable illness is the first step toward recovery.

Symptoms of Depression (Signs Treated)

Common signs that suggest someone needs depression treatment include:

Persistent sadness or emptiness: Feeling down, tearful, or “empty” most of the day.
Hopelessness or guilt: Intense feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or pessimism about the future.
Hopelessness or guilt: No longer enjoying activities or hobbies once found pleasurable.
Fatigue and low energy: Feeling tired or slowed down, lacking motivation.
Sleep changes: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or oversleeping.
Appetite/weight changes: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite.
Trouble concentrating: Difficulty focusing, remembering details, or making decisions.
Physical aches: Unexplained headaches, body aches, or digestive problems that don’t improve with treatment.
Thoughts of death or suicide: Recurring thoughts about dying or suicide (This is an emergency seek help immediately).

Assessment: You’ll begin with a thorough evaluation of symptoms and history. Dr. Aftab will ask about your mood, habits, sleep, medical history, and stressors. He may use questionnaires like the PHQ-9 to measure symptom severity. This helps pinpoint whether depression is present and its intensity.
Diagnosis: Based on the assessment, Dr. Aftab confirms a diagnosis (e.g., major depression, dysthymia) or rules out other causes (e.g., thyroid issues, medication side effects). This ensures the treatment targets the correct condition.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Together with you, Dr. Aftab will decide on therapy options. For most patients, a combination of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication is recommended. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) might be planned to address negative thinking, alongside an antidepressant to help balance brain chemicals.
Therapy Sessions: You may attend weekly therapy sessions (in-person at the clinic or via video call). CBT, interpersonal therapy, or other evidence-based therapies will be used to teach coping skills, challenge negative thoughts, and improve emotional regulation. Each session is a supportive space to work through problems and build resilience.
Medication Management: If prescribed, antidepressants (often SSRIs or SNRIs) will be introduced and closely monitored. These medications help improve mood by correcting chemical imbalances. Dr. Aftab adjusts the type and dose over time to maximize benefit and minimize side effects.

Improved Mood and Energy: Treatment relieves core symptoms (sadness, hopelessness) so you feel more like yourself again. Over time you can regain interest in activities and feel motivated.
Better Functioning: You’ll notice improvements at work, school, and in relationships. Depression often impairs performance; successful treatment helps you meet daily demands again.
Enhanced Coping Skills: Therapy teaches you strategies to manage stress and negative thoughts. You gain tools to handle future life challenges more resiliently.
Healthier Mind-Body: Depression can cause physical symptoms and can worsen other health issues. Treating depression often reduces aches and pains, improves sleep, and can even help control chronic illnesses (like diabetes or heart disease) that are affected by mood.
Reduced Risk: Untreated depression increases the risk of substance abuse and self-harm. Early intervention greatly lowers these risks.
Increased Quality of Life: Although depression can be severe, consistent treatment enables most people to return to a fulfilling life. As NIMH notes, once treatment begins “you should gradually start to feel better”. With professional care, you can rebuild stability, happiness, and a sense of control.

About US

Dr. Naeem Aftab’s Approach

Dr. Naeem Aftab is a highly qualified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience in Pakistan and abroad. He earned his MBBS from Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, and completed his psychiatry residency at Westchester County Medical Center (New York Medical College). He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. His extensive background includes both teaching and clinical roles, ensuring patients receive world-class care.

In treating depression, Dr. Aftab uses evidence-based methods. He combines psychotherapy (often CBT or interpersonal therapy) with medications when appropriate. He takes a holistic view considering physical health, family dynamics, and cultural factors. Patients appreciate his empathetic, non-judgmental approach. He creates a safe space where you can speak openly about your feelings. Throughout treatment, Dr. Aftab works with you to set realistic goals, build coping strategies, and monitor progress. He often involves family members (with permission) to strengthen support networks.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes depression?

Depression often results from a combination of factors genetics, brain chemistry, life stress (like job loss or relationship issues), and medical illnesses. It’s not anyone’s “fault” or character flaw. Sometimes even healthy, successful people develop depression due to chemical imbalances or prolonged stress.

How is depression diagnosed?

Aftab diagnoses depression based on a clinical interview (discussing your symptoms and history). He may use standardized tools like the PHQ-9 questionnaire. A true diagnosis requires persistent symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. He also rules out physical causes (like thyroid problems) with exams or labs if needed.

Do I need medication?

In mild depression, therapy (like CBT) can often help significantly. However, many patients do best with a combination of therapy and medication. Medications (SSRIs/SNRIs) can lift mood and make therapy more effective. Dr. Aftab will discuss the benefits and side effects of meds with you. For moderate to severe depression, medication is usually recommended.

How long before I feel better?

It varies. Some patients feel some improvement in a few weeks after starting treatment, especially with medication. For others, it might take 1-3 months of therapy and medication. Consistency is key. The Koshish Clinic notes recovery usually takes weeks to months depending on symptom severity.

What if I can’t come to Lahore for therapy?

Aftab offers online consultations(telepsychiatry) to patients all over Pakistan. You can schedule video sessions from Karachi, Islamabad, or any city. This makes depression treatment accessible and private. So even if you live far from Lahore, you can receive the same high-quality care.

Get Started

Appointment & Contact

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Naeem Aftab is easy and confidential. Use the contact information below or our online portal (calendar integration coming soon) to secure a session.