Depression Treatment in Abu Dhabi

What is depression?

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric conditions and a leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. It is more than feeling low for a few days: it affects mood, thinking, sleep, energy and daily functioning. Its causes are not fully understood; it is likely to involve a complex interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as stressful life events.

Common symptoms of depression

• Little interest or pleasure in doing things
• Feeling down, hopeless, worthless or guilty
• Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
• Feeling tired or having little energy
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Irritability, frustration over small matters, or angry outbursts
• Slowed thinking, indecisiveness and poor concentration
• Crying spells, reduced sex drive, or unexplained physical problems
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Persistent depression is a reason to see a psychiatrist. Read more in our article on depression.

How BMMC treats depression

• Assessment: an initial psychiatric evaluation, a review of your medical history and, where needed, psychological testing.
• Psychotherapy: evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy and supportive psychotherapy. See Psychology.
• Medication management: our psychiatrists prescribe and monitor medication when appropriate, and explain how it works and its possible side effects.
• TMS: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment most widely used for major depressive disorder, especially when medication has not worked well or has caused unwanted side effects. You stay awake and can usually return to normal activities straight after a session.
• Spravato (esketamine): a nasal spray treatment for treatment-resistant depression.

Appointments are available in person or by telepsychiatry, including evenings and weekends.

Who treats depression at BMMC

• Dr. Abdulnaser Arida, Consultant Psychiatrist and founder of BMMC: assessment and treatment of psychiatric disorders including treatment-resistant depression and complex mood conditions; experienced in TMS.
• Dr. Najwan Al-Roubaiy, Clinical Psychologist: treats adults with depression using CBT and other integrative, evidence-based approaches; sessions in Arabic, English and Swedish.
• Tahani Mostafa, Clinical Psychologist: over 32 years of experience in Egypt and the UAE, with a particular interest in anxiety and depressive disorders and women’s issues.
• Fatema Alkhaja, Clinical Psychologist: CBT and DBT skills to manage emotional distress and improve psychological wellbeing.

See the full team on Meet Our Clinicians.

What to expect at your first visit

1. Book: use the contact form, call +971 2 621 2230, message us on WhatsApp or email info@bmmc.ae.
2. Get matched: we pair you with a psychiatrist or psychologist suited to your concerns.
3. First consultation: a comprehensive evaluation, including a clinical interview, your medical and psychological history and, where needed, questionnaires or psychological tests.
4. Your plan: you and your clinician agree an individual treatment plan, and progress is monitored and adjusted over time.

All consultations are confidential. The clinic is on Sultan Bin Zayed The First St, Al Muntazah – Zone 1, Abu Dhabi.

Depression treatment: frequently asked questions

Can depression be treated?

Many people achieve full recovery or significant improvement in symptoms with appropriate treatment. Some conditions are long-term and need continuing management, which your clinician will plan with you.

What if antidepressants have not worked for me?

Tell your psychiatrist. Depending on assessment, options at BMMC include adjusting medication, psychotherapy, TMS and Spravato.

Should I see a psychiatrist or a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose mental health conditions and can prescribe and manage medication. Clinical psychologists provide assessments and talking therapies such as CBT. When you book, we match you with the right clinician.

Do you offer online appointments?

Yes. Both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments are available.

How do I book?

Use our contact page, call +971 2 621 2230 or email info@bmmc.ae.