People say college is supposed to be the best time of an individual’s life; however, despite the fun and freedom, many students are left feeling distressed, anxious, disconnected and alone. Some college students feel sad, stuck, hopeless or overwhelmed by stress.
Students who feel this way and can’t shake themselves out of it no matter what they do might be experiencing clinical depression. Depression is more than just one bad day, the result of a bad grade, or a little anxiety about future events. When untreated, clinical depression can leave a person feeling so badly that they forget how it feels to feel good.
If you or someone you know feels this way, stop by the Counseling and Psychological Services' information table from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on National Depression Screening Day, Thursday, Oct. 6, in the second-floor atrium of Murray-Herrick Campus Center. Counseling and Psychological Services will offer free, confidential screenings for depression.
Students can fill out a self-test and talk with a counselor about their personal situations or someone they care about. Even those who don’t have depression and are just going through a couple of bad days are invited to take advantage of the program and learn about what services are available. You may learn something that will help you or someone you care about.
Symptoms of clinical depression:
- Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, helplessness or worthlessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, ranging from schoolwork to sports to sex
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite
- Decreased energy, fatigue or feeling “slowed down”
- Thoughts of death or attempted suicide
- Increased restlessness or irritability
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive disorders or chronic pain that don’t respond to medical treatment
Depression can be treated. Counseling and Psychological Services, (651) 962-6780, is here to help. For more information about depression visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.