Depression is one of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions worldwide and one of the most frequently presented at IsraClinic. It is also one of the most frequently misunderstood — both by those experiencing it and, at times, by those treating it.
Depression is not a mood or a temporary state of sadness. It is a clinical condition characterised by persistent changes in emotional functioning, cognition, physical state, and behaviour — changes that affect a person's capacity to work, maintain relationships, and engage with daily life.
Depression can present in several distinct clinical forms:
Major depressive disorder (MDD) — episodes of sustained low mood, loss of interest, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms.
Recurrent depressive disorder — repeated episodes over time, each requiring clinical management.
Dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder) — chronic, lower-intensity but continuous depressive state lasting two years or more.
Bipolar depression — a depressive episode within the context of bipolar disorder, requiring a fundamentally different treatment approach.
Treatment-resistant depression — depression that has not responded adequately to one or more evidence-based treatments.
Each of these requires its own diagnostic pathway and treatment logic.
Depression manifests differently in different people. Common presentations include:
Physical symptoms — chronic pain, headaches, gastrointestinal complaints — frequently accompany depression and are sometimes the presenting complaint, particularly when the patient is not yet aware of the psychological dimension of their condition.
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. At IsraClinic, depression is assessed through a structured multi-stage process that goes beyond symptom checklists.
The clinical interview explores not only current symptoms but the full personal and medical history: previous depressive episodes, treatment history, family psychiatric history, significant life events, sleep, relationships, work, and functional capacity.
Laboratory assessment is conducted to exclude organic causes — thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, and other physical conditions that can present with or exacerbate depressive symptoms.
Neurological assessment is included where clinically indicated. Psychological assessment, including projective testing, provides additional information about the patient's psychological structure.
All findings are reviewed collegially before a diagnosis is confirmed and a treatment plan is developed.
Treatment for depression at IsraClinic is individualised. There is no standard protocol applied uniformly — because depression in one patient is not depression in another.
Pharmacotherapy is selected based on the specific clinical picture, the patient's medical profile, previous treatment response, and current medications. IsraClinic works with current-generation antidepressants and mood stabilisers approved by European (CE) and American (FDA) regulatory bodies. Digital prescriptions are issued through the Yarpa system.
Psychotherapy is integrated with pharmacological treatment throughout the process. Depending on the patient's presentation, this may involve Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), SchSchema Therapy psychodynamic psychotherapy, or other evidence-based modalities.
All treatment follows the Psychoergonomic Method — the individualised clinical framework developed at IsraClinic — and is adjusted dynamically as the patient's condition evolves.
If low mood, emotional emptiness, or loss of interest in life has persisted for more than two weeks — particularly if accompanied by sleep disturbance, fatigue, or difficulties at work or in relationships — a psychiatric evaluation is appropriate. Early assessment significantly improves clinical outcomes.
If there are any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, professional help should be sought immediately.
IsraClinic accepts patients for in-person consultation in Tel Aviv and online, in Russian, English, and Hebrew. No referral is required.
Clinical Reviewer: Dr. Mark Zevin, MD — Senior Psychiatrist, IsraClinic | Last reviewed: 2026
If you recognise these symptoms in yourself or someone close to you, speaking with a specialist is a meaningful first step. Our team is available in Russian, English, and Hebrew.
📞 +972 3 375 13 70 💬 WhatsApp ✉️ info@psy.clinic