Depression & Suicide

Depression

Do you find yourself feeling sad? Do you have a friend who is often sad? College-aged students are more likely to experience depression than any other age group. In fact, 80% of students who suffer from depression fail to seek help or guidance. Nationwide 12% of women and 6.6% of men suffer with depression.

What is depression?

Depression is a "whole body" illness, which affects your body, mood and thoughts. It also affects the way that you eat, sleep, the way you think about yourself, and the way that you feel about others. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness and it is not a condition that can be willed or wished away. Without treatment symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years.

What are some symptoms of depression?

  • Sadness, anxiety, or "empty" feelings
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling "slowed down"
  • Loss of interest or pleasure is usual activities
  • Sleeping problems (insomnia, oversleeping, or waking in the middle of the night)
  • Appetite and weight changes (either loss or gain)
  • Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
  • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
  • Irritability or excessive crying
  • Chronic aches and pains not explained by another physical condition

How can I help a friend struggling with depression?

The best thing to do if you notice a friend or family member who is exhibiting the signs of depression is to offer them emotional support. Speak with this person in private and show your concern by pointing out the changes you have noticed in their behavior. Ask them what is wrong and be very persistent, they may be hesitant to talk about it but if you continue to show concern then they may open up to you. Be patient with them, it will not be easy for them to open up about their thoughts so be sure to point out that you are their friend and you are there to help them through anything. Help them find resources for possible treatment options and other support networks.

Suicide

Did you know?

  • Suicide rates for college-aged students are 11.6% in the United States.
  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college aged men and women.
  • Over 32,000 people in the United States die by suicide every year.
  • Men commit suicide three times more often than women.

What are some warning signs of suicide?

  • Talking about dying: Talk about disappearing, jumping, shooting oneself or other expressions of self-harm.
  • Recent loss: Death, divorce, a broken relationship or lost job can all lead to thoughts of suicide.
  • Change in personality: The individual may exhibit unusual signs of fatigue, indecisiveness or anxiousness.
  • Change in behavior: Lack of concentration in work, school, or everyday activities.
  • Change in sleeping patterns: Oversleeping, insomnia, or other types of sleep disturbances.
  • Change in eating habits: Loss or increased appetites can be a warning sign along with weight loss or gain.
  • Decreased sexual interest: Changes can include impotence or irregular or missed periods.
  • Low self- esteem: This symptom can be seen through emotions such as shame, inferiority or self-hatred.
  • Fear or loss of control: The person may worry about losing their sanity and about harming themselves or others.
  • Lack of hope for the future: This is often the biggest reason for suicide the thought that there will be no future for them or that their current situation will never improve.
  • Other things to look for: Previous suicide attempts, a history of substance abuse, excessive spending, hyperactivity, restlessness or lethargy.