Depression can affect anyone at any time, and college students are no exception. When it does occur, depression among college students can affect their ability to focus, study, and successfully complete assignments and tests, among a variety of other debilitating symptoms.
How do you know whether what you or a loved one is experiencing is depression? And if it is, what’s next? This guide explains common causes and signs of depression in college students, how to seek treatment, and resources if you or someone you know might be experiencing signs of depression.
Is It Depression?
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines depression, in part, as having long-lasting, moderate to severe feelings of sadness or no longer having interest in activities you usually enjoy.
Grief Is Different Than Depression
Though difficult, experiencing sadness resulting from grief is normal, says the APA. Sadness experienced during the grieving process tends to come and go in waves. With depression, feeling sad is sustained for 2 weeks or more and is often accompanied by feelings of worthlessness and self-loathing.
Depression Is Not Uncommon
One in six people will experience depression at some point in their lifetime, according to the APA. The World Health Organization reports that approximately 280 million people worldwide live with depression. Depression can cause other problems, according to the APA, including:
- Sleep troubles
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Difficulty completing everyday tasks
Common Causes of Depression
Depression can be caused by both internal and external factors. Adapting to major life events, even positive ones such as beginning college, is difficult for some people. Common causes of depression, as reported by the APA, follow.
Biochemistry
Chemicals in the brain can affect your likelihood of experiencing depression.
Genetics
Depression can be inherited. Studies of identical twins have shown a 70% likelihood of an identical twin having depression when the other twin is depressed.
Personality
People with these personality characteristics are more likely to experience depression:
- Low self-esteem
- Pessimistic outlook on life
- Low capability to handle stress
- External factors, such as exposure to violence, abuse, or suffering a significant loss
Signs of Depression in College Students
Anyone can experience occasional symptoms of depression. Forty-one percent of college students were found to have symptoms of depression, according to a study by The Healthy Minds Network.
Displaying or expressing negative emotions or feelings is one of the first signs of depression, the National Alliance on Mental Illness says. It’s best to have a doctor or a mental health professional diagnose depression.
Signs of depression can include the following symptoms, but there are others, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH):
- Persistent feelings of emptiness or hopelessness
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Diminished interest in participating in activities that are usually enjoyed
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Having difficulty making decisions or concentrating
- Unexplainable, persistent pain
Jot Down Your Symptoms in a Journal
If you start to experience some of these symptoms, it’s good to record them in a journal. Then, you can discuss your symptoms with a doctor or mental health specialist in accurate detail.
Be sure to note any life changes that have accompanied or precluded your symptoms. That could help a professional to determine any potential causes about why you may be feeling depressed.
What to Do If You Think You're Depressed
It is best to treat depression as early as possible. If you have experienced symptoms of depression for 2 weeks or longer, be sure to speak with a professional therapist, primary care doctor, or psychiatrist. They can accurately diagnose depression.
If you are diagnosed as suffering from depression, they can help treat you for it and uncover other medical issues that could be causing or contributing to your symptoms. Mental Health America reports that more than 80% of people have positive outcomes after being treated for depression.
Treating Depression
Depression can be treated with medication, talk therapy, or a combination of the two. Various types of therapy can be tailored to your unique situation.
A doctor or therapist may recommend that you meet with a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication that may address your symptoms.
Practice Self-Care
In addition to seeking professional help, practicing self-care is important to help lessen the effects of depression. While not intended to replace professional care, self-care includes:
- Getting adequate sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7 or more hours per night.
- Taking care of your health
- Eating nutritious foods
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week and doing muscle-conditioning activities at least twice a week.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drug use. Alcohol is a depressant that can worsen the symptoms of depression.
- Manage stress. Spend time with supportive friends and family members and participate in enjoyable hobbies. Learn more stress management tips for college students.
While these self-care tips are important, if you think you are experiencing depression, it's best to consult an expert for help.
If You Are Having Thoughts of Suicide
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. The line is open 24 hours a day each day of the year. You can talk with someone for free and get resources to help you. All calls are confidential.
Mental Health Resources for College Students
Remember, if you are experiencing depression, you're not alone. It can happen at any time, and it may be a recurring experience. Many resources are available for college students to get help, including those that follow.
Mental Health Resources for College Students
Call for help if you are experiencing thoughts of suicide. Dial 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors. All calls are confidential and the service is free.
This website has resources dedicated to mental health for college students, including how to help a friend who might be depressed.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Find a support group for depression, including ones that are online or over the phone.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Get information on depression, find online tools, and connect with support groups.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Call 800-950-6264 or text "HelpLine" to 62640 for free support Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET. You can also visit the website for resources on depression.
Note: Message and data rates may apply, depending on your plan and provider.
Call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's national helpline at 800-662-HELP (800-662-4357) or use the treatment services locator.
Whether you’re a veteran, active duty, Guard, Reserves, or someone who supports them, the Veterans Crisis Line offers 24/7 support. Call 988 and press 1, or send a text to 838255. They also offer a chat option on their website. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to use this service.
Note: Message and data rates may apply, depending on your plan and provider.
Additional Resources
If you’d like to learn more about depression and its treatment or how to help a family member or friend, here are some additional resources to get you started:
- Chronic Illness and Mental Health (NIMH)
- Depression and Complementary Health Approaches (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
- Antidepressants (MedlinePlus)
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (NIMH)
- Supporting a Family Member or Friend (Mayo Clinic)
Remember: You Are Not Alone
Talk with your primary care doctor or mental health professional, or visit or call one of these mental health resources for help with depression. You don't have to face depression alone, and addressing mental health concerns can help you have a successful college experience.
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