Depression and bipolar disorder are the most common mood disorders treated by psychiatrists across Estonia, particularly in Tallinn and Tartu. DocuMental Clinic offers diagnosis and treatment via video consultation — no waiting list. Consultations are conducted by our specialist psychiatrists.
Depression — Symptoms
Depression is the most common mental health disorder in the world. It is characterised by prolonged periods (at least two weeks) of persistent low mood or loss of joy that negatively affect daily life, work and relationships.
Main symptoms of depression:
- persistently low or sad mood (in children and adolescents often irritability)
- loss of joy and pleasure from most activities
- unwarranted guilt, pessimism, low self-esteem
- impaired concentration and memory
- frequent thoughts of death or suicide
- sleep disturbances — insomnia or excessive sleepiness
- decreased or increased appetite, weight changes
- constant fatigue, lack of energy, reduced libido
According to WHO estimates, around 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide, with prevalence twice as high in women. Depression is one of the leading causes of disability and suicide, particularly in the 15–29 age group.
Bipolar Disorder — Symptoms
Bipolar disorder is characterised by alternating episodes of depression and mania or hypomania.
Depressive episodes
Symptoms are similar to depression — low mood, loss of interest, sleep disturbances, thoughts of death (lasting at least two weeks).
Manic and hypomanic episodes
- excessively elevated mood or euphoria
- unusual surge of energy and increased activity
- elevated self-esteem or grandiosity
- rapid speech, distractibility, jumping between topics
- reduced need for sleep — feeling refreshed after 3–4 hours
- impulsive behaviour — risky business decisions, gambling, reckless sexual behaviour
The difference between mania and hypomania: mania lasts at least one week, is more severe, often requires hospitalisation and may be accompanied by psychosis. Hypomania lasts at least 4 days and is less pronounced. Genetics plays a decisive role — around 80% of bipolar disorder cases are genetically determined.
Treatment
Depression
- Pharmacological treatment: antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) — preferred choice for moderate to severe depression; effectiveness is higher when treatment begins early
- Psychotherapy: cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, family therapy
Bipolar disorder
- Pharmacological treatment: mood stabilisers (lithium, valproic acid, lamotrigine), antipsychotics — the foundation of treatment
- Psychotherapy: supportive psychotherapy — helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life
Frequently Asked Questions
Can depression be treated online in Estonia?
Yes. Our psychiatrists carry out assessments and select treatment via video call. This is particularly important for patients in Tallinn and Tartu. Research shows that the earlier treatment begins, the higher its effectiveness. Do not delay seeking help.
How does depression differ from ordinary sadness?
Depression is not simply a bad mood. Key differences: symptoms last at least two weeks, significantly impair daily life, work and relationships, and do not resolve on their own without treatment. With ordinary sadness the ability to experience joy is preserved — with depression it disappears.
How does bipolar disorder differ from depression?
In depression, mood is consistently low. In bipolar disorder, depressive episodes alternate with episodes of mania or hypomania — periods of unusually elevated mood, increased energy and impulsive behaviour. Importantly, an incorrect diagnosis and prescribing antidepressants alone for bipolar disorder can trigger a manic episode.
Related articles
🔗 Anxiety disorders — symptoms and treatment
🔗 Insomnia and sleep disorders
🔗 PTSD and adjustment disorder
Book a Psychiatrist Appointment for Depression in Estonia
If you notice symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder — do not delay seeking help. The earlier treatment begins, the higher its effectiveness and the better the prognosis.
DocuMental Clinic offers online appointments across Estonia, including Tallinn and Tartu. Video consultation with our specialist psychiatrists — no referral needed, no waiting list.
Current pricing is available on the booking page.
👉 Book an appointment: https://documental.clinic/en/
Author: Psychiatrist, Prof. Eduard Maron
