Depression
Depression is highly treatable...
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SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
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About Depression
Depression is a medical condition that can affect a person’s ability to work, study, interact with people or take care of themselves. Depression affects about 19 million people in the USA every year, and nearly half of all college students say they have felt so depressed that they found it difficult to function during the last school year.
The first episode of depression often appears during the young adult years. Many factors can contribute to the onset of depression, including the presence of other emotional disorders, stress, poor nutrition, physical illness, personal loss and relationship difficulties.
Depression isn’t always easy to spot. It may be expressed through the abuse of drugs and alcohol; sexual promiscuity; or hostile, aggressive, and risk-taking behavior. Some people may experience primarily behavioral changes, some mainly emotional changes, and still others mostly physical changes.
Dealing with Depression
Medication and/or counseling can help. The majority (80-90%) of people who receive treatment for depression experience significant improvement, and almost all individuals gain some relief from their symptoms. However, if untreated, the symptoms of depression can last months to years if untreated.
It is not uncommon for people who are depressed to think about suicide, and it is important to seek help immediately if you or someone you know is having these thoughts. If you think that you or someone you know may be depressed, contact your school’s health or counseling service.
Resources
Help is often available on or around campuses through the following resources:- Student counseling center
- Student health service
- Resident hall director, dean, academic advisor, tutor, or faculty
- Campus religious or spiritual leader
- Community mental health center
- Local crisis center or hotlines
United States:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
With more than 130 crisis centers across the country, our mission is to provide immediate assistance to anyone seeking mental health services.
Helpline: (800) 273-8255 (TALK)
International:
Samaritans
Provides confidential non-judgmental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide – in the United Kingdom and in many other regions around the world
For further information:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
DBSA offers information on depression and bipolar disorder as well as listings to patient support groups across the USA.
Helpline: (800) 826-3632
Mental Health America
Dedicated to helping ALL people live mentally healthier lives.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
The nation’s largest grassroots organization for people with mental illness and their families.
Helpline: (866) 615-6464
National Institute of Mental Health MedlinePlus
News, overview, clinical trials, research, treatment, organizations on depression provided by National Institute of Mental Health.