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Depression
Depression is one of the most common complaints of
college students. Beck and Young (1978) noted that 78% of college students will
show symptoms of depression in a given year and of these 46% will seek
professional help.
Clinical depression or a mood disorder is a
constellation of signs and symptoms that is not a normal reaction to life's
difficulties. A depressive disorder is different from the depressed or sad mood
that is a normal reaction to life's disappointments and losses. Clinical
depression is more than "having the blues".
The following is a checklist of symptoms typically
associated with depression (DSM-IV-TR).
- Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every
day; feeling sad and/or irritable.
- Loss of enjoyment for the things that once
brought pleasure (e.g. school, hobbies, social activities, friends).
- Significant change in weight and/or appetite.
- Change in sleep patterns - do not sleep enough
or sleep too much.
- Have no energy; feel tired/fatigued nearly all
the time.
- Feel agitated/restless or notice a decrease in
usual activity level.
If you experience these symptoms, you may be
depressed. Treatment is available.
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