Recognizing Depression for College Students

Recognizing Depression for College Students Mental Health Issues. Depression Some college students tend to experience the symptoms of different common mental issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicide, eating disorders, and addiction. It mostly happens due to a large amount of responsibilities and excessive anxiety. The National Alliance on Mental Illness says that while 1 in 4 students suffer from a diagnosable disease, about 40% of them dont seek help. In the meantime, failure to treat mental issues may result in debilitating consequences. This article aims at examining the issue of depression. Please, remember that this article isnt a substitute for a doctor visit. It has only introductory purpose and cant serve as a treatment guide. If you or your friend experiences any symptoms of depression, consult a specialist. Depression Depression makes the person feel helpless and detached from the world, impeding with the ability to do everyday tasks. According to a study held by the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors, over 36% of college students experience symptoms of depression. This mental issue is the major reason why students quit college. In serious cases, it may lead to aggravating symptoms and suicide. Symptoms Symptoms of depression can vary since a chemical imbalance in the brain causes different people to display this illness in various ways. The manifestation of symptoms also depends on how a person handles change and how prone they are to mental illnesses. Nevertheless, we can name the most common symptoms:Feelings of unhappiness, guilt, frustration, or anger (often for no explicit reason) Loss of interest in social activities Inability to concentrate Lack of energy Sleeplessness Loss of appetite Thoughts of death and suicide Everyone faces some of these symptoms once in a while, so their non-recurrent manifestation doesnt necessarily mean depression. However, the frequency of their appearance is an alarming sign. In this case, you dont have to be embarrassed or afraid of talking about your feelings. The manifestation of depressive symptoms in college students is understandable. After all, you face so many challenges being away from home, being overwhelmed with various assignments, and maintaining relationships with your friends or roommates. Therefore, you have to know how to recognize the signs of depression and timely treat them. Recognizing The Signs Of Depression In Your Friend To understand whether your friend needs professional help, consider the following questions:Did they stop enjoying the activities they used to like? Did they stop attending classes or social gatherings? Do they regularly experience sadness or anger? Are they talking about dying or suicide?If your answers are yes, provide necessary support to your friend. Dont criticize or judge them. Since your friend probably doesnt control his feelings, dont tell to cheer up. It wont help. Be patient, encourage seeking professional help, and be there for support. Recognizing The Signs Of Depression In Yourself To understand whether you have a depression, ask yourself such questions as:Do you regularly experience the feelings of hopelessness and sadness? Do you turn to alcohol or drugs to relieve your feelings? Do you have thoughts of death and suicide?In case your answer is yes to any of these questions, you need to consult a specialist for mental health assessment. Most likely, youll need the support of someone you know, so ask your friend or family member to accompany you. Depression Resources If you feel as if you have no one to turn to with your issue, you might want to consider this list of organizations that offer their support:National Institute of Mental Health aims to help detect the symptoms of depression, treat, and prevent it. ULifeline helps college students obtain necessary information about mental health and provides tips on helping friends who have mental issues. American College Health Association provides college students with helplines and brochures on different types of depression. The Jed Foundation gives emotional help to college students through special guides and events.Never leave symptoms of depression untreated. Be serious about this condition.