Depression and Anxiety Psychiatrist in Mohali: Symptoms, Treatment and When to Seek Help
Depression and anxiety are the two most common reasons people visit a psychiatrist, and they often appear together. Someone may feel low and hopeless one week and consumed by worry the next. If this sounds familiar, a depression and anxiety psychiatrist in Mohali can assess what is happening and recommend treatment that works.
This guide explains the symptoms, the treatments available, and how to decide when it is time to see a specialist.
How common are depression and anxiety?
These conditions affect millions of people. The World Health Organization estimates that about 5% of adults globally have depression, around 280 million people. For anxiety, its latest fact sheet reports roughly 470 million people living with an anxiety disorder in 2023, around 5.8% of the global population, and says only about 1 in 4 people in need receive any treatment.
In India, the National Mental Health Survey (2015–16) found current depression in 2.7% and lifetime depression in 5.2% of adults. These are survey estimates and the real burden is likely higher, because many people never seek help or are never diagnosed.
Symptoms of depression
Everyone feels sad sometimes. Depression is different because it lasts and affects daily life. Common signs include:
- Persistent low mood or emptiness, most of the day, for two weeks or more
- Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
- Tiredness and low energy
- Changes in sleep, either too little or too much
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
Symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety is more than ordinary worry. It becomes a problem when it is excessive, hard to control and gets in the way of life. Signs include:
- Constant worry about many things
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- A racing heart, sweating, trembling or shortness of breath
- Panic attacks that seem to come from nowhere
- Avoiding places or situations out of fear
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Why see a depression and anxiety psychiatrist in Mohali?
Depression and anxiety rarely disappear without support, and they can affect your health, work and relationships. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor, so they can rule out physical causes, diagnose accurately, and offer the full range of treatment, including medication when it is needed.
Depression and anxiety psychiatrist in Mohali: Treatment options
Treatment is tailored to the person and the severity of the condition.
Talking therapies. The WHO notes that psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have the strongest evidence for anxiety disorders, and they also help in depression. They teach practical skills for managing thoughts and behaviour.
Medication. Antidepressants, including SSRIs, can be useful for adults with depression and anxiety. They usually take a few weeks to work, and your psychiatrist monitors how you respond and adjusts the plan. The WHO advises that benzodiazepines are generally not recommended because of the risk of dependence and limited long-term benefit, so please do not take or stop sedatives without medical advice.
Lifestyle support. Regular sleep, physical activity, reduced alcohol and relaxation skills strengthen treatment. They support, but do not replace, professional care when symptoms are significant.
What to expect from your first visit
A depression and anxiety psychiatrist in Mohali will ask about your symptoms, history and daily life, then explain what they think is going on. You will agree on a plan together, and you can ask any question. Follow-up visits track your progress, and many people begin to feel better within weeks.
If you are in crisis
If you are thinking about harming yourself, please get an appointment of Dr Parag Sharma MD OR go to your nearest emergency department. Tell someone you trust how you are feeling.
Related reading
- Managing everyday pressure: stress management strategies
- Understanding the build-up of stress: chronic stress warning signs
- Choosing a doctor: experienced psychiatrist in Mohali
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How can I differentiate depression from ordinary sadness?
Sadness passes. Depression lasts, usually most of the day for two weeks or more, and affects sleep, appetite, energy, concentration and interest in things you used to enjoy.
Can depression and anxiety occur together?
Yes, and it is common. Someone may feel low and hopeless at times and consumed by worry at others. A psychiatrist can assess both and plan treatment for them together.
Do I need medication for depression or anxiety?
Not always. Treatment is tailored to the person and the severity. Therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps many people, and medication such as antidepressants can be added where appropriate.
How long do antidepressants take to work?
They usually take a few weeks to work. Your psychiatrist will monitor your response and adjust the plan, so keep your follow-up visits.
Can I stop my medicine once I feel better?
Please do not stop or change medicines on your own. Stopping suddenly can cause problems or bring symptoms back. Speak to your Psychiatrist about when and how to reduce them safely.
What should I do if I have thoughts of harming myself?
Get help straight away. Call Tele MANAS on 14416 or 1800-89-14416, which is free and runs 24 hours a day, or go to the nearest emergency department, or call Dr Parag Sharma for emergency online video consultation.
Book Your Consultation Today:
- Clinic: Betterway Mental Health Clinic, SCO 7, 8, Hale Clinic, Sector 78, Mohali, Punjab
- Phone/WhatsApp: +91 6350485705
- Website: www.betterway.co.in
Author: Dr. Parag Sharma, MD Psychiatry | Betterway Mental Health Clinic, Mohali, Chandigarh
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Sources: WHO depression fact sheet · WHO anxiety disorders fact sheet · NMHS 2015–16 summary · PIB: Tele MANAS
