Depression
College students commonly feel blue. However, if your negative feelings continue for days or weeks, or interfere with your abilities either to function or to interact with others, then you may be depressed. Symptoms of depression are intense and prolonged, but may occur gradually. Eventually these feelings interfere with the enjoyment of your life. Self-blame and feelings of worthlessness are common symptoms of depression that may stand in the way of seeking help. Often a roommate, friend or family member may notice your depression before you realize you are depressed.
Common Symptoms of Depression
- Feeling down
- Lack of interest
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of appetite, overeating or digestive problems
- Excessive sleep, insomnia or waking early in the morning
- Loss of sexual desire
- Headache, backache or other unexplained pain or discomfort
- Physical agitation or restlessness
- Chronic fatigue or loss of energy
- Lack of motivation
- Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
- Difficulty concentrating, impaired memory, indecisiveness or confusion
- Neglecting appearance or hygiene
- Irritability or rapid mood change
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you feel you may be depressed, you may wish to complete this online screening for depression. If you need help with your depression, contact the Counseling Center at 919.515.2423 or come by the center to set up an initial appointment.
Resources
- How to Know If You Are Depressed defines depression, describes the causes of depression, and offers suggestions for helping yourself if you are depressed.
- Tools like the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) can help you determine if you are struggling with symptoms of depression.
- The National Institute of Mental Health offers handouts on Depression, Depression in Women, and Bipolar Disorder.