Depression rates are high among college-aged students – the past decade alone has seen a dramatic increase in students reporting depressive symptoms on school campuses nationwide.
Particularly during the winter months, with poor weather and two more terms bearing down on students here at the University, falling into a rut can seem inevitable.
It should be noted, however, that a great deal of difference exists between the type of seasonal depression anyone is susceptible to and major, or clinical, depression. When dealing with stress stemming from personal relationship problems, with family or friends or a spouse, the added pressure to succeed in school can seem overwhelming.
The difference between individuals experiencing mild depressive symptoms and those with a major depressive disorder can be difficult to distinguish. The intensity of those symptoms among the latter group is greater, however, and often shame prevents them from seeking help. In those cases, untreated individuals may become increasingly detached from society, turning instead to alcohol or drugs. In the most extreme cases, individuals seeking to escape depression take their lives.
Yesterday the Emerald previewed Colorado psychologist Sally Spencer-Thomas’ seminar, “Tsunami: The Impact of Suicide,” which took place last night in the EMU Ballroom. Her presentation focused on the warning signs evident in someone with major depression who may be contemplating suicide. These include widely varying appetite and sleeping habits, substance abuse, lack of pleasure in everyday activities and an increased tendency toward solitude.
According to the Oregon Center for Health Statistics, suicide was the second most prevalent cause of death among 10 to 24 year olds statewide as recently as 2005.
Students need to know that if they are feeling depressed or have contemplated suicide, the University has resources available to them. The University Health Center offers counseling and individual and group therapy sessions for students dealing with depression, or anyone who just want someone to talk to about their problems. Counseling sessions are both free and confidential for University students.
The Oregon University Suicide Prevention Project is a joint effort among Oregon’s eight public universities to assess and reduce the risk of suicide on these campuses. Grant money from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has enabled the schools to take their mental health facilities to new levels, at no cost for students.
With an abundance of resources available, the responsibility lies with students and those around them who care to take steps to ensure mental well-being. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please contact the University Health Center or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).