Depression & Anxiety Treatment

Medical consultation and drug therapy for depressive moods, generalised anxiety and panic attacks — combined with referral to certified psychotherapy.

Price: GOÄ No. 801, factor 2.3 — from 80.18 €

12 doctors available now

At a Glance

What is it?

In-depth initial consultation and follow-up care for mild to moderate depression and anxiety disorders. Includes first-time SSRI prescription (private prescription) and referral to psychotherapy.

Who is it suitable for?

For adults with persistent low mood, excessive worry, panic attacks or physical complaints consistent with psychological causes.

How the consultation works

45–60 minute initial video consultation, structured history-taking (PHQ-9 / GAD-7), individual treatment plan, SSRI private prescription where appropriate, follow-up after 2–4 weeks.

What you should know beforehand

Please describe the onset, course and triggers of your symptoms, any previous treatments, and all medications you are currently taking.

Overview

Depression and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and show up as persistent low mood, lack of drive, excessive worry or panic attacks. They are highly treatable and are in no way a sign of personal weakness. The course varies from person to person: many people recover fully with the right support, while untreated symptoms can persist for weeks and months or return over time.

Common causes

Depression and anxiety usually arise from an interplay of several factors. These include a family predisposition, an imbalance of messenger substances in the brain, and stressful life events such as loss, separation, chronic stress or being overwhelmed at work. Ongoing sleep deprivation, social isolation, physical illnesses (such as thyroid or cardiovascular problems) and certain medications can also contribute. Often no single cause can be identified.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical assessment if symptoms last longer than two weeks, clearly affect your daily life, work or relationships, or are accompanied by physical symptoms such as sleep problems. Warning signs that call for prompt action include marked social withdrawal, hopelessness or panic attacks. In the case of acute suicidal thoughts, or thoughts of harming yourself or others, please call 112 immediately or the free telephone counselling service at 0800 111 0 111 (around the clock).

Symptoms & Indications

Depressive mood Lack of drive Generalised anxiety Panic attacks Sleep disturbances Difficulty concentrating Suicidal thoughts (non-acute)

Medication Options

  • SSRI (sertraline, escitalopram, citalopram) — private prescription
  • SNRI (venlafaxine) for a pronounced anxiety component
  • Mirtazapine for accompanying sleep disturbances
  • No long-term benzodiazepine therapy via telemedicine

Non-Medication Options

  • Structured psychoeducation
  • Behavioural therapy exercises
  • Referral to licensed psychotherapists
  • Crisis network recommendation

Telemedicine scope: Initial consultation, diagnosis, first-time SSRI prescription and follow-up care are possible via telemedicine. Acute suicidality or severe depressive episodes belong in the emergency department or local psychiatric care.

Important Notes

  • ⚠️ Not an emergency service. In case of acute suicidality, call 112 immediately or the free Telefonseelsorge helpline: 0800 111 0 111 (24/7).
  • We do NOT prescribe benzodiazepines for long-term therapy (risk of dependence).
  • In cases of severe depression or suicidality, we recommend local psychiatric care.
HOW IT WORKS

How OpenClinic24 works

STEP 01

Complete the questionnaire

Brief details about your symptoms

STEP 02

Doctor connects with you

Video consultation within minutes

STEP 03

Receive your documents

Prescription, sick note or referral, digitally

Estimated wait

~ min wait

Related treatments

More conditions we treat by video consultation.

AVAILABLE NOW

Video consultation — usually <15 min wait

Medical notice: Not a substitute for an in-person medical examination. The information on this page is intended for general guidance only. In an emergency, please call 112.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does an SSRI take effect?

An antidepressant effect typically sets in after 2–4 weeks, with the full effect after 6–8 weeks. Side effects usually occur in the first 1–2 weeks and often subside again.

Will I also receive psychotherapy?

We refer you to licensed psychotherapists. Unfortunately, the waiting time for a therapy place is long in Germany — in the meantime, we can support you with medication and advice.

What if I have suicidal thoughts?

In case of acute suicidality, please dial 112 IMMEDIATELY or go to the nearest emergency department. We are not an emergency service. For non-acute suicidal thoughts, we will work out a safety plan with you and arrange appropriate help.

Does health insurance cover the costs?

The medical consultation is a private service (GOÄ). Those with private (PKV) insurance submit the invoice to their insurer. Those with statutory (GKV) insurance bear the costs themselves. Psychotherapy with certified therapists is covered by both types of insurance.