About Depression
Depression can affect anyone at anytime. Feeling blue,
sad, down in the dumps or just low is something we all experience at
times. Students are often prone to depression while coping with the
multiple pressures of school, work, friends and family. Students who
receive high grades or low grades are equally vulnerable to feeling
overwhelmed. We all can be pressured to a point where nothing seems
to give us pleasure and it becomes hard to get interested in things
or just to get started. When we experience these feelings, we may also
notice other changes as well.
We may slow down, experience changes in appetite, become irritable,
neglect responsibilities and/or self-care, and have difficulty remembering
things. Our professors may comment on our inability to concentrate in
class. Employers may notice we do not seem to be as productive as usual.
Family members may notice changes in our appetite or sleep patterns.
We may experience tension and tend to dwell more on our shortcomings
than on our achievements. This can become a vicious cycle. The more
we focus on negative feedback, the more depressed we become and the
more negative feedback we receive.
How do we begin to break the negative cycle? Depression can be overcome
with help. Counseling and, at times, (non-habit forming) medication
can provide relief. Counseling can help people become better able to
cope with their problems by providing support and help, examining the
underlying causes of depression and working out possible solutions to
problems. Treatment is available at low or no cost to the student.
What if you are not depressed, but someone you care about
is? You may want to help, but you may not know how. Professional help
is available for students living with depressed persons. In addition,
there are special support groups for adults undergoing transition periods
-- such as adjusting to the loss of a parent or spouse.
If you or someone you care about suffers any of the above symptoms
and you would like more information, come in and speak with a professional
counselor in 0203 James Hall.
All
services are free and confidential.
Email us