Page 97 - Keys to College Success

descriptions, take practical steps to improve
your health. Most student health and cam-
pus counseling centers provide medical and
psychological help or referrals. Although
asking for help may feel like a risk, most
who do it find it is well worth the reward
of feeling better and functioning more
effectively.

Be Aware of the
Symptoms of Depression
and Anxiety
It’s common to experience negative emo-
tions such as sadness after a breakup or
anxiety over a low grade. However, depres-
sive and anxiety disorders are illnesses, not
temporary mental states that you can
shake off, and sufferers need care and sup-
Try to find productive ways to reduce stress. This student has chosen to spend time port. If you recognize these symptoms in
outdoors, eat a healthful lunch, and connect with a friend on the phone. someone you know, talk with the person
about his or her feelings. Then try to con-
vince the individual to see a doctor or
mental health professional. Don’t keep your concerns a secret; they may save someone.
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself, reach out for help. There are people who
care and can assist you. The right help can change or even save your life.
For general advice about mental health issues, visit the Campus Mental Health:
Know Your Rights! website found at www.bazelon.org.

Depressive disorder
Depression is fairly common among college students. Research by the American Psy-
chological Association (APA) found that 41% of students experience moderate to
16
severe depression at some point in their college careers. Key 3.3 shows possible causes
of depression, as well as some typical symptoms.
Depression is treatable, but diagnosis requires a medical evaluation. Most student
health and campus counseling centers provide both medical and psychological help, as
well as referrals. For some people, adequate sleep, regular exercise, a healthy diet, and
the passage of time can ease the disorder. For others, behavioral modification therapy
and medication are important.
At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of
Education) lists the warning signs of an impending suicide: 17

■ Statements about hopelessness or worthlessness: “The world would be better
without me.”
■ Loss of interest in people, things, or activities.
■ Preoccupation with suicide or death.
■ Visiting or calling family and friends and giving things away.
■ Sudden sense of happiness or calm. A decision to commit suicide often brings a
sense of relief that convinces others that the person “seemed to be on an upswing.”

Risk sounding an alarm if someone you know exhibits any of these warning signs.
3 And if you show signs yourself, don’t let them go unnoticed. Consider visiting ULife-
CHAPTER 60