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Faculty/Staff Resources

Depression: A Common Condition on Campus

Research suggests that depression occurs more frequently among college students than the general population. Because of differences in the way data is collected, it is difficult to say with certainty the extent to which depression is experienced by college students nationwide. However, the 2004 Boynton Health Service Student Health Survey found that 7.8 percent of students were diagnosed with depression in the past year and 16.2 percent were diagnosed with depression sometime within their lifetime.

Most everyone occasionally has "the blues" or days when things just don't go their way, but most bounce back within a day or two. If the "down" feelings persists, it may be depression.

The following is a list of the typical symptoms of depression:

• Persistent sadness, feeling blue
• Diminished pleasure or satisfaction with daily activities
• Significant weight gain or loss, resulting from unintentional changes in eating patterns
• Sleep disruption, either sleeping much more or less than usual
• Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling "slowed down"
• Increased restlessness or irritability
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, or pessimistic
• Feeling guilty, worthless
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Being Attentive To Possible Depression

Many people may not recognize these symptoms in themselves as depression. Often outside observers are in a better position to comment on changes in performance, behavior, and attitude.

If you notice any significant changes in your students, comment on what you observe. Let students know you are concerned and willing to discuss these changes and their current mood. Just because you raise an issue doesn't mean you are responsible for resolving a student's problems. Be prepared to refer students to appropriate services for evaluation and assistance.

Inquire further when a single possible symptom of depression is mentioned by a student. For example, not all students who report difficulty concentrating are depressed, but this symptom is one that students may find more academically relevant to disclose. When it occurs in combination with increased absence from class, decreased academic performance, or clear decline in energy or mood, it suggests the need for further evaluation.

For assistance with an issue that is not listed, please call Office for Student Affairs at 612-626-1242.