Depression in College Students by Elisa Kapunan
- Aspiring Meds
- Jun 19, 2021
- 3 min read
About one year ago, I graduated high school.
I remember the feelings of excitement and happiness coursing through my body as I looked forward to a new chapter of my life eight hours away from home.
The two months of summer leading up to my move-in date, I prepared by shopping for new clothes and makeup, stocking up on toiletries, and purchasing supplies for classes.
I was ready to kick butt in college. Or so I thought.
Despite graduating third in my class and earning a full-ride scholarship to university, nothing could have prepared me for the academic, social, and mental challenges brought about through the college experience.
I was exposed to students of varying backgrounds, foods I had never tried before, the “bipolar” Texas weather, and a number of substances only one would see at college parties.
Not wanting to miss out on any experiences presented to me, I found myself constantly saying “Yes” to invitations and losing sight of my priorities and personal boundaries. My struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance, along with the relentless stream of assignments and exams, took a major toll on both my mental health and GPA.
I lost motivation, had difficulty sleeping, skipped meals, and began to lose interest in activities I once found enjoyable.
College is a time for discovering one’s identity and maturing into a young adult; however, college can also act as a catalyst for the onset of depression in students. Research shows that nearly 1 in 5 college students are affected with either anxiety or depression. In addition, the National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 75% of all mental health conditions begin by age 24.
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines depression as having long-lasting, moderate to severe feelings of sadness and/or loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities.
Common causes of depression stated by the APA include:
Biochemistry: the chemical makeup of a student’s brain may indicate a predisposition for depression
Genetics: depression may be inherited
Personality: people who have personality characteristics such as low self-esteem, low capability of handling stress, or pessimistic outlooks are more likely to experience depression
External factors: includes exposure to violence, abuse, or a significant loss
For college students, depression may affect students’ ability to focus, study, and successfully complete assignments and tests needed to obtain their degree. Some even report feeling so depressed that they experience difficulty going about their daily routines.
Warning signs of depression include:
Feelings of sadness
Loss appetite or overeating
Diminished interest in participating in activities that were once enjoyable
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Decreased energy
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Noticeable change in physical activity and movements, such as prolonged pacing or shaking one’s leg
Persistent headaches, stomachaches, or muscle pain
Thoughts of suicide or increase thoughts about death
Depression can lead college students to form unhealthy habits, such as turning to alcohol or other substances as an outlet to deal with stress and other negative feelings. Other types of risky behavior that can result include unsafe sex and even the extreme- suicide. This behavior may become more frequent towards the end of the semester with the increased stress of project deadlines and final exams.
Fortunately, there are several ways to get help if you or someone you know is experiencing college depression. Most colleges and universities offer student counseling services where mental health professionals are readily available as a source of comfort. Students may only have access to a limited number of sessions; however, on-campus health centers can provide references to other mental health professionals in the area.
Depression can be treated with medication, psychotherapy (also referred to as talk therapy), or a combination of the two. Various types of therapy can be tailored to provide students with the best treatment needed.
In addition to seeking professional help, it is necessary to stress the importance of self-care. Self care for college students includes:
Getting enough sleep
Taking care of your body
Avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs
Managing stress
If you are experiencing depression, remember that you are not alone and your feelings are valid. Know that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
You are supported, and you are loved.
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This is such a serious topic, I loved your approach to writing your article! The message at the end is a great addition :)