Combating Depression

If you have more than a few of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from depression.

• Difficulty concentrating
• Persistent sadness
• Fatigue
• Lack of interest in things that you're normally interested in
• Tendency to blame yourself when things go wrong
• Irritability
• Disliking yourself
• Feeling hopeless about the future
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• Feeling dissatisfied with your life
• Feelings of being less competent or valuable than others
• Loss of appetite
• Thoughts of ending your life

Although there are other explanations (e.g., medical ones) for the symptoms above, depression is a rather common condition. People with depression suffer enormously, and their work, school, and interpersonal lives are affected.

Most people who suffer from depression do not seek help. This may be because the person does not realize he or she is depressed or the person believes it would be a sign of weakness to seek professional assistance.

This is unfortunate, as depression is a clinical condition that is very treatable with both medication and therapy. An investment of one hour a week for a period of three months will produce substantial benefits for many people.

The Counseling Center has trained staff available to help you with depression and other common problems. A referral for psychiatric services can be made if necessary by the Counseling Center staff.