Reviewed by: Pavel Kornilov, MD, psychiatrist · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F32
- Who you see
- a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist working together
- Format
- video consultations, online psychotherapy and messenger contact
- Duration
- 30–60-minute appointments; a course of treatment usually lasts at least 6 months
- Anonymity
- treatment is confidential, with no registration at the state psychoneurological dispensary (PND)
- When it is urgent
- suicidal thoughts, a plan, saying goodbye to people — call 103 or 112; young people can also call 150
- Outcome
- the return of energy, interest, sleep and the ability to live a normal life
What you should know
Depression is not just a bad mood or laziness; it is a medical condition that changes how the brain works and affects sleep, appetite, the ability to feel pleasure and to think. A person may spend years explaining their fatigue by stress, work or the weather until it turns out they have no energy even for simple tasks. According to WHO estimates, depression is one of the most common illnesses in the world, and it responds well to treatment, especially when started early.
Online depression treatment at Psychiatry Online follows the same structure as in-person care: diagnosis, discussing the options, choosing therapy and monitoring. The difference is that you do not need to summon the strength for a journey, which matters especially in depression. You connect from home, whether it is an apartment in Almaly district or a house in Kaskelen. Appointments with a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist take place regularly, and you can message your doctor in between. This way treatment is not interrupted, even when your energy is low.
Signs and symptoms of depression
- low mood for most of the day, nearly every day, for longer than two weeks
- loss of interest in and pleasure from things that used to make you happy
- constant fatigue, with even simple tasks requiring enormous effort
- sleep problems: insomnia, waking too early or, on the contrary, excessive sleepiness
- a noticeable change in appetite and weight without deliberate dieting
- feelings of guilt and worthlessness, thoughts that you are a burden to your loved ones
- difficulty concentrating and making even simple decisions
If at least two points apply and the state lasts longer than two weeks, it is worth seeing a specialist. Phone consultation is free. If life is at risk, call 112 or 103.
What causes depression
Depression develops when several factors come together. Biological factors include a hereditary predisposition, differences in how neurotransmitter systems work, hormonal changes, chronic illnesses and certain medications. Psychological factors include a tendency toward self-criticism, perfectionism and negative past experiences. Social factors include chronic stress, loneliness, loss and financial problems. Depression is often triggered by an event, but sometimes it appears for no apparent reason.
Life in a big city adds its own pressures: long working days, commuting through traffic, lack of sleep, little winter sunshine through the smog over Almaty, and limited time for rest and for being with loved ones. On their own these factors do not cause the illness, but they can drain a person’s resources and trigger an episode in someone who is predisposed. It is important to understand that depression is not a weakness of character, and you do not have to deal with it alone.
How online depression treatment works
You message us on WhatsApp → the administrator books a time → at the first video appointment the psychiatrist asks in detail about your symptoms and how long they have lasted, your sleep, appetite and thoughts, and any previous episodes and treatment. They may ask you to complete a depression rating scale. Then together you discuss the plan: psychotherapy, medication by drug class and daily routine. After that come regular follow-up appointments. If it is hard to talk during a video call, you can start with messages and a short phone call.
Physical causes of depression cannot be ruled out online without tests: thyroid function, vitamin levels and anemia. The doctor will give you lab referrals. Prescribing certain medications and issuing prescriptions depend on the laws of Kazakhstan and the requirement for an in-person examination. Severe depression with suicidal thoughts may require a hospital stay — call 103 or 112.
How we help
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and other evidence-based methods are effective for mild and moderate depression and enhance the effect of medication in severe depression. Sessions take place online, usually once a week. The psychotherapist helps you change negative thinking, return to activity and build supportive relationships with the people around you.
Medication
For moderate and severe depression, the psychiatrist may suggest antidepressants. The medication is chosen based on your symptoms, tolerability, coexisting illnesses and other drugs you take. The effect builds gradually over several weeks. It is important not to stop taking it on your own, even if you feel better — the decision to finish treatment is made together with the doctor.
Behavioral activation
Depression makes you give up activities, and giving them up deepens the depression. The doctor helps you gradually bring back small, enjoyable and useful activities: a walk, meeting someone, a hobby. This is one of the best-evidenced approaches. In Almaty, it might be a short walk in a park near your home rather than a mandatory trip to the mountains.
Sleep and lifestyle
Regular sleep, physical activity, avoiding alcohol, which makes depression worse, and daylight are an important part of treatment. The doctor helps you build a realistic routine that fits your schedule. These measures do not replace therapy, but they noticeably speed up recovery and reduce the risk of another episode in the future.
Myths and facts
MythDepression is just a bad mood
FactDepression is a medical diagnosis with clear criteria in ICD-10 and ICD-11. It changes sleep, appetite, thinking and the ability to work. You cannot simply “pull yourself together” when depressed, any more than you can heal a broken bone by willpower.
MythAntidepressants change your personality
FactAntidepressants do not change your character or make you a “different person.” They help restore normal functioning, and many patients say they feel like themselves again. Side effects are discussed with the doctor and are usually manageable.
MythOnline depression treatment is less effective
FactResearch on telepsychiatry and online psychotherapy shows effectiveness comparable to in-person care for most forms of depression. What matters most are regular appointments and trust in your doctor, and both are achievable via video call.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Almaty
| Online psychiatrist consultation (50–60 min) | 15 000 ₸ |
| Follow-up online consultation | 12 000 ₸ |
| One month of online psychiatric care | 60 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
An online consultation for “Online depression treatment” is available to people across Almaty and Almaty Region 24/7 — from home, work or while travelling. For an in-person visit, Psychiatry Online in Almaty has two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty and 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Doctor home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements.
Confidential and private
An online appointment in Almaty is first of all about privacy: no clinic visit, no waiting room. A private room and headphones are enough. Data is stored in a secure system with restricted access and does not enter any state registry without legal grounds.
Questions and answers
How long does depression treatment take?
The acute phase usually takes several weeks, followed by continuation therapy for several months after improvement. With repeated episodes, longer maintenance therapy may be needed. The doctor discusses the specific timeline with you, based on the severity and history of the illness.
Can depression be treated without pills?
For mild depression, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes are often enough. For moderate and severe depression, international guidelines recommend combining psychotherapy with medication. The decision is made together with the doctor, taking your preferences and the risks into account.
How can I tell whether it is depression or just tiredness?
Tiredness goes away after rest, a weekend or a vacation. With depression, rest does not help, you lose interest even in pleasant things, and feelings of guilt and hopelessness appear. If these symptoms last longer than two weeks, it is worth seeing a psychiatrist for an assessment.
Can I keep working during treatment?
Many people continue working, especially with mild and moderate depression. The online format lets you see your doctor without taking time off work. With severe depression, a temporary reduction in workload may be needed — the doctor will help you assess what is realistic for you right now.
What should I do if I have suicidal thoughts?
This is a serious symptom of depression that you need to talk about right away. If you have a plan or intention, call 103 or 112 immediately; teenagers and young people can also call the 150 helpline. Do not stay alone: call someone close to you and let your doctor know.
Will depression come back after treatment?
There is a risk of another episode, especially if treatment is stopped early. A full course, maintenance therapy and knowing the early warning signs significantly reduce this risk. Online follow-up at Psychiatry Online helps spot deterioration in time and respond without long trips across Almaty.
Where can I be seen in Almaty?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty and 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
