Re: How do I explain to my Pakistani Husband that I have depression..
Barfi, you are incorrect when you refer to depression as a "western illness" since it can affect anyone of any nationality. I think I understand what you meant though - that its at least a bit more recognized and treated in the west as compared to the east.
I agree with the poster above that you should approach the subject in purely medical terms with your husband. That you are suffering from an imbalance of serotonin, chemicals in the brain. The imbalance causes all kinds of problems from feeling sad to lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, weakness etc. This approach is more understandable than simply using the term "depression" because that term is WAY over-used. "I didnt get an A on my exam...I'm SO depressed." "My husband didnt like the new recipe I cooked, I am so depressed.". So many people use the word depression to describe disappointment or passing feelings of sadness. But REAL depression is truly a medical condition.
May you recover from it soon.