My father also has have depression for many years, and he takes 1~3 sleeping pills (Zolpidem) every night. Besides taking sleeping pill, does your father take anti-depressant also?

If private psychiatrist is expensive, why don't you ask them to refer your Dad to government hospital. For senior citizen above 60, the treatment and medication are free of charge even in semi-government hospital like PPUKM.

My father is stable with anti-depressant (Sertraline), anti-anxiety (sometimes) and sleeping pill.