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Finding the right kind of mental-health support

A practical guide in English and Hindi for individuals and families who are unsure where to begin.

Reviewed by Dr. Janisar Javed, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry) · 30 September 2026
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Psychiatrist, psychologist or counsellor?

You do not need to diagnose yourself before seeking help. The most suitable starting point depends on symptom severity, safety, whether medical assessment or medication may be needed, and the kind of psychological support being considered.

मदद लेने से पहले खुद बीमारी तय करना जरूरी नहीं है। सही विशेषज्ञ का चुनाव लक्षणों की गंभीरता, सुरक्षा, दवा या मेडिकल जाँच की जरूरत और आवश्यक थेरेपी पर निर्भर करता है।

मनोचिकित्सक

Psychiatrist

A medical doctor trained to assess mental-health conditions, physical contributors and medicines.

Consider this option for

  • Severe or persistent symptoms
  • Marked sleep, mood or behaviour change
  • Possible psychosis, mania, addiction or self-harm risk
  • Medication assessment may be needed
क्लिनिकल साइकोलॉजिस्ट

Clinical psychologist

A psychology professional trained in psychological assessment and structured therapies; qualifications and registration should be checked.

Consider this option for

  • Detailed psychological assessment
  • Structured psychotherapy such as CBT
  • Cognitive, personality or learning assessment
  • Therapy alongside psychiatric care
काउंसलर

Counsellor

A professional who may support adjustment, relationships, stress and everyday emotional difficulties; training varies considerably.

Consider this option for

  • Life transitions or situational stress
  • Relationship or communication concerns
  • Supportive counselling
  • No immediate safety or severe psychiatric concern
A simple decision guide

When a psychiatrist is the safest first appointment

01

Symptoms are severe, persistent or significantly affecting sleep, work, study, relationships or self-care.

02

There is unusual suspiciousness, hearing or seeing things others do not, extreme mood elevation, severe agitation or markedly reduced need for sleep.

03

Alcohol or substance withdrawal, complicated medication questions, seizures or another medical condition may be involved.

04

Previous treatment has not helped, the diagnosis is uncertain, or coordinated medication and psychotherapy planning is needed.

यदि उलझन हो, तो मनोचिकित्सक से विस्तृत मूल्यांकन एक सुरक्षित शुरुआत हो सकती है। मूल्यांकन का अर्थ यह नहीं है कि दवा अवश्य शुरू होगी।

Urgent safety guidance

Do not wait for a routine appointment

Seek immediate emergency medical care if there is suicidal intent, a serious self-harm attempt, violent behaviour, sudden confusion, a seizure, inability to eat or drink, severe alcohol withdrawal, or inability to remain safe. A website form or WhatsApp message is not an emergency service.