Understanding Depression in India

Why Constant Fatigue, Body Pain, and Emotional Exhaustion Should Not Be Ignored?

Do you feel tired all the time, mentally drained, or weighed down, even though medical tests show everything is normal?
Do daily tasks feel heavy, joyless, or overwhelming?

You’re not alone and this may not be “just stress” or “just physical.”

In India, Depression often looks different from how it is commonly described. Many people live with depression for years without recognising it, because they don’t feel openly sad or emotionally broken.

Recent estimates suggest that nearly 15% of Indian adults need mental health support, yet 70–92% never receive treatment, mainly because depression is not recognised early.

Why Depression Looks Different in India?

In Western countries, depression is often described as:

• Feeling sad or low

• Crying frequently

• Loss of motivation

In India, depression may not show up this way—not because people don’t feel emotional pain, but because emotional expression is often discouraged.

From a young age, many Indians are taught to:

• Stay strong

• Not complain

• Prioritise responsibility over emotions

As a result, depression in India often appears as emotional exhaustion, constant stress, low energy, irritability, and loss of joy, rather than openly expressed sadness.

Instead of saying “I feel depressed,” many people say:

• “Bahut thakaan rehti hai” (I’m always tired)

• “Mann bilkul nahi lagta” (I feel mentally disconnected)

• “Kaam karne ki energy nahi bachi” (I have no energy left)

• “Sab kuch bojh lagta hai” (Everything feels heavy)

This does not mean depression is only physical.
It means emotional distress is often internalised and carried silently.

What Depression Often Looks Like in Indian Daily Life?

Depression in India frequently shows up through behaviour and daily functioning, which is why it is often missed.

Common signs include:

• Persistent irritability or anger over small things

• Overworking or staying constantly busy to avoid emotions

• Loss of interest in festivals, social events, or hobbies

• Difficulty concentrating at work or studies

• Sleep or appetite changes explained as “stress” or “routine issues”

• Ongoing self-blame and feeling like a burden on others

Because emotional distress is rarely named, depression often becomes visible only after it starts affecting health, relationships, or work performance.

Unique Risk Factors for Depression in India

1. Breakdown of the Joint Family System

With the shift to nuclear families:

• Emotional support has reduced

• Loneliness has increased

• Young adults (15–29 years) often feel unsupported

2. Urban Life Stress

Life in Indian cities brings:

• Long working hours and commutes

• Financial pressure

• Limited rest and social connection

Urban populations show significantly higher depression rates than rural areas.

3. Gender-Specific Challenges

Indian women face higher risk due to:

• Limited autonomy and decision-making power

• Economic dependence

• Strained in-law relationships

• Cultural pressure to adjust and sacrifice

Studies show higher depression prevalence in women (16.3%) compared to men (13.9%) in India.

Depression Symptoms: An Indian Context Checklist

Common Physical and Energy-Related Signs

• Constant fatigue or weakness

• Body pain without clear medical cause

• Sleep problems (too little or too much sleep)

• Headaches, stomach issues, or dizziness

Emotional & Behavioural Signs

• Loss of interest in family or social activities

• Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected

• Irritability, anxiety, or restlessness

• Withdrawing from loved ones

⚠️ Important:
If symptoms persist despite normal medical reports, a mental health evaluation can be helpful.

Getting Help for Depression in India

Free Government & NGO Support

• Tele-MANAS – 14416 (Free, 24/7, multiple languages)

• NIMHANS Helpline: 080-46110007

• Vandrevala Foundation: 1860-2662-345

• iCall: 9152987821

Professional Treatment Options

• Therapy: Counselling with a psychologist (online or in-person). CBT and trauma-informed therapy are effective.

• Medication: Prescribed by a psychiatrist when needed, often alongside therapy.

• Workplace Support: Many organisations offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

Reach out if:

• Symptoms last longer than 2 weeks

• Daily functioning is affected

• You feel emotionally overwhelmed or stuck

• You experience thoughts of self-harm

Breaking the Stigma Around Depression

Depression is not weakness.
It is a mental health condition shaped by stress, emotional overload, and life pressures, just like physical illnesses are shaped by biological factors.

Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not failure.

If you’re supporting a loved one:

• Listen without judgement

• Avoid minimising their experience

• Encourage professional help

• Be patient—recovery takes time

How CounselSpace Therapy Can Support You?

At CounselSpace Therapy, we provide:

• One-on-one therapy for depression, anxiety, and emotional burnout

• A safe, non-judgemental space to explore emotional struggles

• Evidence-based, culturally sensitive therapy approaches

• Online and in-person sessions for comfort and accessibility

If you’ve been carrying everything quietly for too long, therapy can help you slow down, understand yourself, and heal.

Take the First Step Today

Contact CounselSpace Therapy: +91 8108100588 to begin your healing journey.

Sources: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2188003&&reg=3&lang=2