How it usually presents
Alongside low mood, people commonly describe fatigue that sleep does not fix, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, disturbed sleep, loss of interest in activities, and a harsh inner commentary about their own worth.
Because these changes build gradually, many people only seek help once daily functioning at work, at home or in relationships has been affected for some time.
What assessment looks at
A structured assessment considers the duration and severity of symptoms, sleep and appetite, physical health, life circumstances, past episodes, risk, and the supports already available to you.
This is what allows the therapy to be individualized rather than generic — and it is also where any need for medical review is identified and discussed openly with you.
What therapy involves
Treatment may include behavioural activation to rebuild routine and engagement, cognitive work on self-critical thinking, problem-solving around current stressors, and relapse-prevention planning.
Progress is usually gradual and uneven rather than linear. Reviewing it session by session keeps the work honest and keeps the goals yours.
Common questions
- Can therapy help without medication?
- Many people are supported effectively through psychological therapy alone. Where medication may be relevant, a referral for medical review is discussed with you.
- What if I cannot explain why I feel this way?
- That is common and it is not a barrier. Part of the assessment is making sense of what has been happening together.
Continue reading on depression
This article is part of our depression resource hub, which brings together the related articles and the psychological services that address it.
Depression
Depression Treatment: A Clinical Psychologist's Guide to Getting Better
Anxiety
Understanding Anxiety — and Knowing When to Seek Help
Overthinking
Why Overthinking Feels Productive — But Rarely Is
Sleep
Sleep Difficulties: A Psychological View
Related services
- Depression Support — Therapeutic support for low mood, loss of interest, fatigue and hopelessness through individualized care.
- Individual Psychological Counselling — One-to-one therapeutic sessions offering a confidential space to understand what you are experiencing and work towards change.
- Self-Esteem & Confidence — Therapeutic work on self-critical thinking, self-worth and social confidence.
Ready to talk it through?
A single assessment appointment with Tayyab Murtaza, Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist, is the clearest way to understand what you are experiencing and what would help. Sessions are available in person in Lahore and securely online across Pakistan and internationally.
About the author
Tayyab Murtaza is a Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist and Founder of Fatima Hope and Psychological Centre, offering assessment, psychological therapy, group therapy and clinical hypnotherapy in Lahore and online. He holds a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI).
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional psychological assessment or treatment. If you are in crisis or at risk of harm, seek urgent local medical help.