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It is natural to feel bad sometimes but when we feel like this for weeks at a time consistently, it’s possible that we may be experiencing Depression (Aware, 2017).
Depression can affect people at any age; during college students may experience the first signs and symptoms of depression. Many students also feel that the symptoms they are experiencing are part of the stress of college life. Additionally, some students may worry about being judged by others if they seek help (NIMH, 2016).
Depression can affect different people in different ways and can cause a variety of physical, psychological, and social symptoms (HSE, 2016). The symptoms of Depression vary and may include some of the following;
Depression can result from;
Stressful life events – such as bereavement or relationship breakdown can cause you to have a higher risk of becoming depressed, especially if you try to tackle these issues alone and isolate yourself from family and friends.
Illness– if you have been recently diagnosed with a chronic illness this can cause symptoms of depression. Head injuries can trigger mood swings and cause emotional problems. Even minor head injuries can cause a range of symptoms such as fatigue and reduced sex drive, which can lead to depression.
Your Personality traits – having low self-esteem or being overly self-critical can contribute to the way you perceive yourself and can increase your likelihood of developing depression.
Social Isolation – becoming cut off from family and friends can increase your risk of depression.
Alcohol and Drugs – Substance misuse including the use of cannabis and marijuana can contribute to depression. Using alcohol to cope and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can result in an increased risk of depression (HSE, 2016).
The first step is to talk with a Mental Health care provider or doctor. They can perform an assessment to help determine if you have depression or if you have another health or mental health issue. Some medical conditions or medications can produce symptoms similar to depression. A doctor or mental health care provider will ask you about:
If you have depression, you may feel exhausted, helpless, and hopeless. But it is important to realize that these feelings are part of the illness. Treatment can help you feel better. To help yourself feel better: see a professional as soon as possible.
Research shows that getting treatment sooner can relieve symptoms quicker, and reduce the length of time treatment is needed.
If you think a friend may be experiencing depression, you can help them be diagnosed and treated. You may need to help your friend find a doctor, counsellor, or attend the Student Health Services on the college campus.
You can also:
Email: IT Sligo Student Counselling Service: studentcounsellor@nullitsligo.ie
Phone: 071 930 5463
Turn2meis an online counselling service free of charge at turn2me.org/onlinecounselling/details.
The Samaritansat: samaritans.ie, Free phone: 116 123 or Text: 087 260 9090.
Aware at: aware.ie or Tel: 1800 80 48 48.
Grow (Mental Health support and Recovery) at: grow.ie or Tel: 1890 474 474.
Irish Advocacy Networkat: irishadvocacynetwork.com or Tel: 01 872 8684
Crisis Text Support Line, for free 24/7 support in a crisis Text ITSLIGO to 50808
In the case of an Emergency:
Phone or visit your doctor.
Go to the Emergency Department of the nearest hospital.
Call 999.