Dr. Surabhi Mathur, Consultant Psychiatrist at Narayana Hospital, treats depression at her clinic in Nirman Nagar, Jaipur, with a combination of careful diagnosis, psychotherapy such as CBT, and medication when it is needed.
Understanding Depression
Clinical depression (major depressive disorder) is a medical condition that changes how you feel, think, sleep and function. Everyone feels sad at times, but depression lasts at least two weeks, is present most of the day, and makes everyday tasks feel heavy.
Depression can appear on its own or alongside anxiety, chronic illness, thyroid problems, substance use, pregnancy and the postpartum period, or bipolar disorder. Telling these apart is the first job of a psychiatrist, because the right treatment depends on the cause.
Common signs and symptoms
- Persistent sadness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Tiredness and low energy, even after rest
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Irritability, restlessness or slowed movements
- Unexplained aches, headaches or digestive problems
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
Causes and risk factors
- Changes in brain chemistry and stress hormones
- Family history of depression or other mood disorders
- Major life stress: loss, relationship problems, financial or job pressure
- Long-term illness, chronic pain or hormonal changes
- Childhood adversity or trauma
- Alcohol or substance use
When should you see a psychiatrist?
Consider booking an appointment if these difficulties have lasted more than two weeks, keep coming back, or are affecting your work, studies, relationships or daily routine. You do not need to wait until things feel unbearable; early treatment is usually shorter and more effective.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, go to the nearest emergency department or call Tele-MANAS, the Government of India’s free 24×7 mental health helpline, on 14416.
How Dr. Surabhi Mathur makes a diagnosis
Your first consultation is an unhurried conversation about your symptoms, how long they have been present, your medical and family history, sleep, stress and any substance use. Where needed, Dr. Mathur uses standard rating scales and may suggest blood tests to rule out physical causes such as thyroid or vitamin problems. You leave with a clear explanation of what is happening and a treatment plan you have agreed to.
What to expect at your first visitTreatment options
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A structured talking therapy that helps you notice and change the thought patterns and habits that keep depression going.
Antidepressant medication
For moderate to severe depression, modern antidepressants (such as SSRIs) are effective and are not habit-forming. Doses are adjusted carefully and reviewed at follow-up.
Behavioural activation and lifestyle care
Gradually rebuilding routine, sleep, physical activity and social contact, which lifts mood alongside other treatment.
Family involvement
With your consent, family members can learn how to support recovery and recognise early warning signs.
Relapse prevention
Continuing treatment for some months after you feel better, and planning for stressful periods, lowers the chance of depression returning.
How long does treatment take?
Most people begin to feel some improvement within two to six weeks of starting treatment, with fuller recovery over a few months. Medication is usually continued for six to twelve months after you feel well, and is then reduced gradually under supervision rather than stopped suddenly.
Why choose Dr. Surabhi Mathur in Jaipur?
- MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), Consultant Psychiatrist at Narayana Hospital
- Trained in psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Plans that combine therapy, medication and lifestyle care
- Strictly confidential, non-judgmental consultations
- Clinic in Nirman Nagar, open seven days a week
- Hospital care at Narayana Hospital when it is needed