Understanding the concern
Common signs and experiences
People experience this concern in different ways. A few signs may be familiar, or your experience may not match a list neatly. These examples are not a test and cannot diagnose a condition.
- Low or empty mood that keeps returning
- Less interest in people or activities
- Changes in sleep, appetite or energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling unusually self-critical, hopeless or withdrawn
What matters is the effect on your life and whether you would like support in understanding it. You are welcome to describe the concern in your own words rather than using clinical terms.
Getting support
When to see a psychologist
Consider meeting a psychologist when low mood or loss of interest lasts, affects daily routines, or feels difficult to carry alone. Support can also be useful when changes are less clear but something about your usual life or relationships feels different.
A psychologist can discuss how long the changes have been present and how they affect you. If symptoms are severe, a medical review may be recommended. If you may harm yourself or cannot stay safe, seek immediate support through local emergency services or Tele-MANAS at 14416.
Seeking support is a personal choice. A first conversation can help clarify the concern, your priorities and whether this service is the right next step. If a different professional or a medical assessment would be more suitable, that can be discussed openly.
A collaborative process
How counselling and follow-up work
Counselling can make room to describe what has changed and identify pressures, losses, relationship concerns, health factors and existing sources of support. Psychotherapy may explore patterns of thought and behaviour, daily routines, self-criticism and ways to reconnect with manageable activities.
Follow-up is planned with you and adjusted as your needs become clearer. A psychologist does not prescribe medication; when a psychiatric or medical opinion could help, that option can be discussed. Care is individual, and no outcome or timeline can be guaranteed.
Psychotherapy is a conversation-based process shaped around your concerns and goals. Sessions can include reflection, counselling, practice between visits and follow-up discussions. The approach is reviewed with you; no cure or specific result is promised.
Your first visit
What happens at the first consultation?
The first meeting is a chance to share what has brought you in and what you would like help with. You can talk about when the concern began, how it affects daily life and what you have already tried. There is no requirement to tell your whole story in one sitting.
Chandni will ask questions to understand your goals and relevant context, explain how sessions are organised, and invite your questions. Privacy and its legal or safety-related limits are discussed. You can then decide together whether to continue, consider a different approach or seek another professional’s input.
You do not need a referral or special preparation. Notes, reports or a list of questions are optional if they help you feel ready.
Flexible appointments
Online consultation option
Online appointments are available by prior booking. They can be useful when travel is difficult or when you prefer to speak from a familiar setting. The psychologist will discuss whether online care fits your concern and goals.
Please join from a private place with a reliable connection. If an urgent in-person assessment or emergency response is needed, an online appointment is not a substitute; appropriate local support should be contacted promptly.
Clear answers
Frequently asked questions
Does low mood always mean depression?
No. Low mood has many possible causes. An assessment looks at duration, impact, context and other explanations before drawing conclusions.
Can I speak to a psychologist before seeing a psychiatrist?
Yes. You can begin with a psychology consultation. A psychiatric or medical assessment may be suggested if it would support your care.
What if talking feels difficult?
You can go at a pace that feels manageable. You do not need to prepare a complete story before your first appointment.
Is online counselling possible?
Yes. Online appointments are available by prior booking when a private space and secure connection are available.
Need urgent support?
This website is not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call local emergency services. In India, the Government’s Tele-MANAS helpline is available at 14416.