In these circumstances medication is the first step in the larger process of understanding and changing themselves and their environment. Some form of depression is undoubtedly the most common condition most private psychiatrists encounter. Naturally this will vary according to the type of practice and the kinds of patients one deals with. But depression, whether biochemical in origin, psychological, or as often happens, both, is the commonest finding. Lots of things, and sometimes several things at the same time.
Depression is a very confusing word and can mean different things at different times.
It refers both to a primary condition and to a symptom - as well as to a mood or state of mind that may or may not be abnormal. On top of that, it is perfectly possible to be depressed and not even know it. There have been many classifications of depression in an attempt to end the confusion. But for the average person, this has only added to the problem. Taken alone and in isolation, the word depression has practically no useful meaning in psychiatry.