Dealing with Depression in College

By Sammy K

College is an exciting time in every young adult’s life. With the excitement of moving away, making new friends, parties, starting a new chapter in life, we often fail to stop and think of how it may be after everything has begun to settle. Once Welcome Week is over, are you feeling homesick or anxious? Perhaps a little blue? This is common and usually passes, but if it sticks around for most of the semester, it’s time to reach out to overcome it.

First of all, let’s overcome the stigma of depression and mental illness in general. Mental illness is not a choice. It’s not something people wake up and decide to have in their life; most people suffering with mental illness would give everything to get rid of it. You’re not abnormal or a freak, so please don’t beat yourself up if you’re not adjusting the way your peers are.

Chemical imbalances in the brain can cause depression, other times it can be brought on by significant life events, like going to college. Your studies are more important than they were in high school, you’re trying to juggle a part-time job with school, trying to have a social life, trying to sleep. It gets to be overwhelming for everyone, but some people have an easier time overcoming it. Don’t blame yourself or feel like you’re the only one having a hard time; I promise you’re not alone.

Don’t try to deal with depression on your own. Depression is like any physical illness, only it’s not present on the outside. Wishful thinking won’t make it go away; trying to ignore it and pretending there isn’t a problem can make it worse. If the depression gets to an unmanageable level, everything you’re holding together can fall apart quickly. Grades, friendships, and work can all be impacted.

Don’t be afraid to talk to a friend; sometimes venting can help take the edge off, even just a little. Tell them how you’re really feeling inside, let it off your chest. Cry and yell if you need to, just get it out. It won’t cure everything but it will make life a little more manageable for the moment.

Seek out help. Check your school’s health center for counseling services to students. They can get you set up with a counselor and the doctors at the health center can usually get you started on an antidepressant if needed.

Talk to your parents. I know, I know. You’re off in college and independent now, but your parents love you and will always be concerned with your wellbeing. Tell them what’s going on, how it’s impacting you, and tell them you are considering seeing a professional. Having their support will take a great load off your shoulders; knowing you can turn to them during this process is a huge relief. If your school doesn’t offer counseling services, have your parents take a look into your insurance provider and plan and try to find someone in the area that will see you. It’s scary but if you take the leap, you’ll be starting the process of overcoming and healing.

Depression is a scary and confusing illness, but you don’t have to stay caught in its grips. Seek out the help you deserve and take care of yourself.

If you or someone you know is dealing with depression and are having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. There are support members available 24/7.

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