Ask an Expert

Q. I have been feeling down lately and am wondering if I could be depressed. I can't seem to get motivated and prefer staying in my dorm room to going out. I don't have anything to really complain about so I can't figure out why I might be feeling this way? Any suggestions?

Is this the first time you have experienced lack of motivation, and feelings of "being down"? If so, you may be experiencing a depressive episode. Sometimes, people experience symptoms of depression such as lack of appetite, insomnia, low energy, poor self-esteem, lack of concentration or difficulty making decisions and/or feelings of hopelessness for a long period of time and become accustomed to living with such symptoms. Other times, symptoms such as these may suddenly appear and cause an abrupt disruption for a person. In any case, it is important to seek help rather than suffer alone. Both talk therapy and medical interventions such as taking antidepressants can be very helpful!

The Counseling Center is located on the 3rd floor of the Ritchie Center. The first few visits are free, and following sessions are offered on a low cost basis. We offer individual counseling can also help locate groups available around campus.