Is what I say kept private?

Yes. Your records and what you say stay confidential, as the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 requires. The rare exceptions, such as a serious risk to your safety, are explained at your first visit, before anything else.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book directly, for yourself or for someone in your family.

Will I have to take medication?

Not necessarily. Medication is one option among several, and any decision about it is made with you, with the reasons laid out. Nothing is prescribed in a hurry.

Any past prescriptions or reports, and a list of the medicines you take now. For a video consultation, a quiet room where you won't be overheard.

Can I come with someone?

Yes. Bring whoever makes it easier. Part of the conversation may still be just the two of you, and that is normal.

Depression and low mood: psychiatrist in Amritsar and online

Depression is more than a bad week. It is a low mood, or a loss of interest in things, that lasts for weeks and starts to change how you sleep, eat, work and relate to people.

It is common, it is not a weakness, and it usually gets better with the right help.

What it can feel like

Things you used to enjoy feel flat
Sleeping much more, or much less, than usual
Finding it hard to get out of bed or start the day
Eating more or less than you used to
Feeling guilty, worthless or a burden
Finding it hard to concentrate or make decisions
Going through the motions with people you love

When it’s worth coming in

Your mood has been low for more than two weeks
It is getting in the way of work, study or family
People close to you have noticed a change
You have had thoughts that life isn't worth living

How I can help

At the first visit we go through what has been happening, what else is going on in your life, and your health. Together we work out what this is, and what it isn't.

Depending on how severe it is, the plan may involve talking treatment, changes to sleep, activity and routine, and, when it will help, medication. I explain any medicine fully before you decide, and we review how it is working at follow-up visits.

Recovery is rarely a straight line, so I plan follow-ups with you rather than leaving you to manage alone.

If you are thinking about ending your life, please don't wait for an appointment. Call Tele-MANAS on 14416, free and open all day and night, or go to the nearest emergency department.

At the clinic or on video

At the clinic: T-4/1345, Old Lakkar Mandi, opposite Singhania Hospital, Amritsar. Mon–Fri, 6pm–8pm. 30 minutes, ₹500.
On video: Anywhere in India, on Google Meet. Mon–Thu, 11am–8pm; Fri, 5pm–8pm. 30 minutes, ₹500.
Languages: English, Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu

Find a time Call +91 70090 28600

Questions

Will I have to take antidepressants?

Not necessarily. For milder depression, talking treatment and changes to routine are often enough. For moderate or severe depression, medication can help a great deal, and the decision is always made with you.

Are antidepressants addictive?

They are not habit-forming in the way sleeping pills or alcohol can be. Stopping them suddenly can cause unpleasant effects, so when the time comes we reduce them gradually.