Reviewed by: Pavel Kornilov, MD, psychiatrist · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F32
- Who conducts it
- a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist
- Format
- video appointments, psychotherapy sessions, and online follow-up
- Duration
- noticeable effects after several weeks; a course lasts months
- Anonymity
- confidential; seeking help alone does not put you on a registry
- When it's urgent
- suicidal thoughts, refusing food and water, psychosis — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- remission, a return to normal activity, and a relapse prevention plan
What you should know
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders; according to WHO estimates, it is a leading cause of disability worldwide. In ICD-10, a depressive episode is coded F32, and recurrent episodes are coded F33. The core symptoms — low mood, loss of interest and pleasure, and increased fatigue — persist for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Online depression treatment in Satpayev is available for mild and moderate depression, as well as for follow-up in severe cases.
Depression is not a character weakness or a “bad mood” that can be overcome by willpower. It is a condition with biological, psychological, and social mechanisms, and it responds well to treatment. International clinical guidelines recommend a stepped-care approach: from psychoeducation and psychotherapy for mild depression to a combination of medication and psychotherapy for moderate and severe depression. Most of these stages can take place remotely.
Signs of Depression
- low, depressed mood for most of the day over a two-week period
- loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- constant tiredness and lack of energy even after rest
- sleep problems: insomnia, early waking, or excessive sleepiness
- noticeable changes in appetite and weight unrelated to dieting or illness
- difficulty concentrating and making decisions, slowed thinking
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness, thoughts that life is meaningless
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.
Why Depression Develops
Depression arises from a combination of several factors. Biological ones include inherited predisposition, disrupted neurotransmitter systems, changes in the hormonal stress-response axis, chronic physical illnesses, and hormonal shifts. Certain medications also play a role, as does alcohol use, which intensifies and maintains depressive symptoms.
Psychological and social factors — loss, prolonged stress, conflict, loneliness, work overload, traumatic experiences — often act as triggers. Thinking patterns matter too: a tendency toward self-criticism, rumination, and pessimistic interpretation of events. Depression often develops without any obvious reason, which does not make it any less real. Understanding these mechanisms helps in choosing the right treatment.
How Depression Is Treated Online
The first video consultation focuses on diagnosis: the psychiatrist clarifies your symptoms, how long they have lasted, previous episodes, any periods of elevated mood, physical illnesses, and alcohol use, and assesses suicide risk. Standardized depression scales are used. Then the plan is discussed: psychotherapy, medication, and sleep and activity routines. Appointments are repeated every one to four weeks, and you can keep a mood diary in between.
Severe depression with suicidal intent, refusal to eat or drink, or psychotic symptoms requires in-person or inpatient care — call 103 or 112; the crisis helpline for young people is 150. To rule out physical causes, such as thyroid problems, in-person lab tests are needed. Prescribing and issuing prescriptions depend on the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
How we help
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and behavioral activation have proven effectiveness for depression and work well over video. For mild depression, psychotherapy can be the main treatment; for moderate and severe depression, it is combined with medication. A course usually involves regular sessions over several months.
Medication
For moderate and severe depression, antidepressants from various classes are used, with additional medications if needed. The effect develops gradually over several weeks, so it is important not to stop treatment too early. The choice of medication takes into account symptoms, co-occurring conditions, and tolerability; online follow-up makes it possible to assess the effect regularly.
Behavioral and lifestyle measures
Healthy sleep, regular physical activity, a structured daily routine, and limiting alcohol are part of the recommendations for depression of any severity. They do not replace treatment when symptoms are pronounced, but they enhance its effect. The doctor helps you put together a realistic plan that takes your current energy level into account.
Maintenance treatment
Once remission is achieved, treatment continues for a set period to reduce the risk of relapse; with recurrent episodes, this period is longer. Online depression treatment in Satpayev at Psychiatry Online includes follow-up at this stage and gradual, supervised discontinuation of treatment, with an action plan for early signs of worsening.
Myths and facts
MythDepression will go away if you just pull yourself together
FactDepression is a medical condition, not a lack of willpower. Without treatment, an episode can last for months and recur. Timely help shortens the period of suffering and lowers the risk of relapse.
MythAntidepressants change your personality
FactAntidepressants do not change your personality or create “artificial happiness.” Their job is to restore disrupted mood regulation so that a person can get back to their usual self and their life.
MythOnline psychotherapy doesn't work for depression
FactResearch shows that video psychotherapy is as effective as in-person sessions for mild and moderate depression. The key conditions are regular sessions, a qualified specialist, and a stable connection.
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 Satpayev
| 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
Psychiatry Online in Satpayev: same-day video appointments and two branches for in-person visits — 7 Shakhterov St., Satpayev and 54 Zhambyla St., office 33, Satpayev. Our mobile team works around the clock: all city districts and nearby settlements. If you live elsewhere in Ulytau Region, starting online is usually easiest.
Confidential and private
An online appointment in Satpayev 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 can I tell depression from tiredness?
Tiredness usually passes after rest, while in depression low mood, loss of interest, and lack of energy persist for at least two weeks and interfere with everyday life. If you are unsure, a consultation with a psychiatrist will help you sort it out and assess the severity.
Can depression be treated with psychotherapy alone?
For mild depression, psychotherapy is often enough. For moderate and severe depression, clinical guidelines recommend combining psychotherapy and medication. The choice is made together with your doctor, taking into account your preferences and the severity of your symptoms.
When will I start to feel better?
With medication, the first changes usually appear after one to three weeks, and the full effect is assessed later. Psychotherapy also takes several weeks of regular sessions. It is important not to stop treatment at the first sign of improvement.
What should I do if I have thoughts of suicide?
This is a reason to seek help immediately: call 103 or 112; teenagers and young people can also call the 150 helpline. Do not stay alone — tell someone close to you. Suicidal thoughts are a symptom of depression, and they can be treated.
Will I be prescribed antidepressants online?
Whether a medication can be prescribed remotely depends on the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the requirement for an initial examination. The doctor will explain what is possible in your case. Taking antidepressants on your own without supervision is not recommended because of the risk of side effects.
How much does online depression treatment cost?
The cost depends on the format: psychiatrist consultations, a course of psychotherapy, and how often appointments take place. Depression treatment in Satpayev is planned individually, and at the first consultation the doctor discusses the expected scope of care so you can make a decision.
Where can I be seen in Satpayev?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 7 Shakhterov St., Satpayev and 54 Zhambyla St., office 33, Satpayev. 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
