Depression Symptoms: Signs You Should Not Ignore
Depression is more than sadness. The main symptoms are a low or empty mood and loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy, lasting at least two weeks, along with changes in sleep, appetite, energy and concentration, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Depression is common, it is a medical and psychological condition and not a weakness, and it responds well to treatment.
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Emotional Symptoms of Depression
Persistent sadness, emptiness or hopelessness; loss of interest in hobbies, people and daily activities; feeling worthless or guilty; irritability or anger; crying easily or feeling unable to cry; and difficulty seeing a future.
Physical and Behavioural Symptoms
Sleeping too little or too much, changes in appetite or weight, constant tiredness, slowed movement or restlessness, trouble concentrating and making decisions, withdrawing from family and friends, and unexplained aches and pains. In Pakistan, many people first describe depression through headaches, body pain or fatigue.
Depression Symptoms in Women and in Men
In women, depression often comes with tearfulness, guilt, anxiety and changes around pregnancy, childbirth and menopause (see postpartum depression). In men, it often shows up as irritability, anger, working excessively, withdrawing or using substances, and is often missed. In Urdu people may say اداسی (udaasi), ڈپریشن or "dil nahin lagta".
How Many Symptoms Mean Depression?
Clinicians usually look for five or more symptoms, including low mood or loss of interest, most of the day on most days for at least two weeks. Milder, longer-lasting low mood is also treatable. A short depression self-check can help you decide whether to talk to someone.
Treatment That Works
Talking therapies such as CBT and behavioural activation are effective, often within a few weeks. See our depression treatment page. We are psychologists and do not prescribe medication. If a medical opinion would help, we will say so and work alongside your doctor or psychiatrist.
If You Are Thinking of Ending Your Life
If you are having thoughts of ending your life or hurting yourself, please tell someone you trust now and do not stay alone. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.
Where to Get Help in Pakistan
The Meeting Matters is a psychology practice in Islamabad, working since 2010. Sessions are by secure video from anywhere in Pakistan, or in person at our F-11/1 clinic in Islamabad, in Urdu, Punjabi or English, with evening and weekend slots. Message us on WhatsApp with what you are dealing with and a time that suits you. We usually reply within about 30 minutes and will suggest a suitable therapist. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.
Meet Therapists Who Can Help
Muhammad Naushad Anjum
Founder & Lead Psychologist — Couples, Marriage & Relationship Counselling
Tasmia Asghar
Clinical Psychologist, CBT, DBT & NLP Therapist
Ayesha Tariq
Clinical Psychologist — Relationship, Couples & Marriage Counselor
What Our Clients Say
“I had a really great experience at Meeting Matters Clinic in F-11. The therapists here are highly professional aur unka ravaiya bohat supportive hai. It’s not easy to find a safe space for mental health, but yahan ka mahol bohat pur-sakoon aur welcoming hai. They genuinely listen to your problems without any judgment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for good counseling in Islamabad.”
Subhan A. · Google Review
“I am truly grateful to Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and the team at Meeting Matters. I reached out during one of the most difficult periods of my life while dealing with grief and trying to be the best parent I could be for my children. Ms. Tasmiya's kindness, empathy, and guidance helped me navigate emotions that often felt overwhelming. She helped me understand my feelings, regain perspective, and think through practical ways of supporting my children and myself. I always felt respected, heard, and comfortable during our sessions. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and Meeting Matters to anyone going through a challenging time and looking for professional support in a compassionate environment.”
Hashir K. · Google Review
“Have noticed alot of changes within myself because of the sessions I've had. My therapist is extremely kind and helpful. I've never once felt uncomfortable feeling like I'm talking to a stranger. My Dr has made me feel as if she's my own and has helped me a lot.”
Shagufta K. · Google Review
15+ Years of Experience You Can Trust
The Meeting Matters has been providing professional counseling, therapy and training since 2010 — over fifteen years of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples and families across Pakistan and around the world. Our psychologists are trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR and psychodynamic therapy, delivered through confidential online counseling and online therapy as well as in-person sessions at our Islamabad clinic.
Explore Our Full Range of Services
Alongside specialist support for this concern, you have access to our full range of services — the same experienced team, available online or in person:
Individual Therapy
One-to-one online counseling and therapy for anxiety, depression, stress and personal growth.
Couples Counseling
Online relationship counseling for communication, conflict and rebuilding trust.
Marriage Counseling
Online marriage counseling for couples working through distress or disconnection.
Premarital Counseling
Guided conversations before marriage, available online.
Family Therapy
Family counseling for communication, parenting and conflict resolution.
Child Psychology
Child and adolescent therapy with parent guidance.
Online Therapy
Secure online therapy sessions from anywhere.
Corporate Mental Health Workshops
Workplace wellbeing programs for organisations.
Career Counseling
Support for career transitions and workplace stress.
Key Benefits
- Qualified psychologists and therapists
- Online anywhere in Pakistan
- Clinic in F-11/1, Islamabad
- Sessions in Urdu, Punjabi or English
- Evening and weekend slots
- Rated 4.7 on Google (424 reviews)
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Take the first step toward better mental health. Our compassionate team is here to support you.