Depression treatment in Islamabad

Depression is common in Pakistan, but it is often called weakness, laziness or a lack of faith. Many people live with it for years before seeing anyone, and many families search for 'depression ka ilaj' quietly on their phones.

Depression is a medical condition and it is treatable. At Health Plus, our psychiatrists and psychologists build a plan that can include medicine, talking therapy and a steady daily routine, as an outpatient or during a residential stay.

Depression is not a lack of faith or willpower

People with depression are often told to pray more, get married, or simply be grateful. Faith and family can be a great support, but they are not a substitute for treatment when low mood takes over daily life.

Depression also shows up differently in men and older people in Pakistan. It may look like anger, constant tiredness, body aches or heavy use of sleeping pills or charas rather than sadness.

Signs to watch for at home

Noticing several of these over weeks, not days, is a reason to get advice.

• Low mood most of the day, nearly every day
• Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Tiredness, aches and low energy
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
• Pulling away from family and friends
• Thoughts of death or self-harm

How depression is treated at Health Plus

The first step is a full psychiatric assessment. Our psychiatrist asks about mood, sleep, appetite, energy, any substance use and any thoughts of self-harm, and checks for physical causes where needed.

Treatment may include medicine, talking therapy such as CBT with one of our psychologists, or both. Medicine usually takes a few weeks to help, and the dose is reviewed regularly.

For people who are severely unwell, not eating, or not safe at home, a residential stay gives round-the-clock care, a calm routine with sunlight and exercise, and daily therapy until things are stable.

Depression and suicide risk: warning signs

Most people with depression do not try to end their life, but some do, and families are often the first to notice warning signs.

Take these seriously: talking about wanting to die or being a burden, saying goodbye to people, giving things away, sudden calm after a long low period, searching for ways to harm themselves, or using more alcohol or pills than usual.

If you notice these signs, ask directly and calmly: 'Are you thinking about ending your life?' Asking does not put the idea in their head. Stay with them, remove medicines and other dangerous items, and get help the same day.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also call our team at any hour for advice.

How long treatment takes

Most people with depression are treated as outpatients. When symptoms are severe, or someone is not safe at home, residential care may be recommended for a period, followed by outpatient follow-up.

What families can do

• Take talk of death or self-harm seriously. Do not leave the person alone, and call 1122 in an emergency.
• Avoid telling them to 'snap out of it'.
• Help them get to an appointment. That first step is often the hardest.
• Encourage small daily routines: meals, a walk, prayer, sunlight.
• Look after your own sleep and health too.

Who will care for your loved one

Next steps

• Outpatient (OPD)Consultations and counselling without staying at the clinic.
• Residential Program (3–6 months)A live-in program combining medical, psychological and recovery care.
• Rehab fees and roomsFrom PKR 120,000 a month
• How admission worksNine steps, from first call to discharge