Which early signs does The Valens Clinic list?
The list above comes from the clinic’s FAQ on early signs of depression. The depression page adds what to watch for in daily life. Sleep or appetite may change without another clear explanation. Activities once enjoyed may stop giving satisfaction. Mood may start to affect performance, decision-making or social engagement at work and at home.
The page also lists symptoms returning after a period of improvement as a reason to seek treatment.
Why does the two-week mark matter?
The FAQ sets the threshold: symptoms lasting more than two weeks and affecting daily life warrant a professional evaluation. The depression page describes a similar pattern as sadness or emotional numbness lasting for weeks and interfering with daily functioning.
The page also separates depression from a temporary low mood. It calls depression a clinical condition whose symptoms may be emotional, physical and cognitive. Only an evaluation can say which one you are dealing with.
Before you book, count the days. Write down when the low mood began, how your sleep and appetite have changed, and where it shows at work or at home. Notes give the clinician something concrete to work from.
What happens at the first assessment?
Every depression treatment plan at the clinic begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment. The depression page describes a detailed psychological and psychiatric evaluation of symptom patterns, severity and contributing factors. A first session with a psychologist usually covers current concerns, personal history and goals for therapy, the clinic’s FAQ says. Sessions stay confidential, and the pace follows your comfort rather than a fixed script.
Treatment then depends on how severe and long-lasting the symptoms are, your treatment history, any anxiety or medical conditions alongside, and your preferences. Therapy options include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy.
When does a psychiatrist join in?
Clinicians can treat many people with mild to moderate symptoms without medication, the clinic’s FAQ says, and therapy alone works for many of them. Medication becomes a consideration mainly when symptoms grow more severe or persistent. A psychiatrist reviews medication, and the clinic says its team can collaborate across specialities when needed.
If earlier treatment did not help, ask for a reassessment. The FAQ says reasons vary, from an incomplete diagnosis to a therapy style mismatched to the person’s needs. The clinic also offers esketamine treatment for depression, a medically supervised nasal spray for eligible adults with treatment-resistant depression.
What if the low mood includes hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm?
The depression page says thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm call for an immediate professional assessment. Do not wait for two weeks to pass. If you are in danger now, the clinic’s default advice for emergencies is to attend the nearest Emergency Department.
Book a first assessment
Email info@thevalensclinic.ae to ask which psychologist or psychiatrist fits your situation. The Valens Clinic delivers depression treatment through psychiatrists and psychologists licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and its Jumeirah site holds Community Development Authority (CDA) approval.