This condition is prevalent on college campuses, affecting an estimated 53% of students at some point.
It can also increase their risk of substance abuse and co-occurring mental health conditions.
All of these changes happen at one time and cause major stress.
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Any symptomsboth mild and severecan affect college students' performance and mental health.
Fortunately, help is available and schools have also stepped in to address mental health concerns.
These frustrations turned inward may present as depression.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
These frustrations turned inward may present as depression, Dr. Dwenger says.
Struggling with motivation and falling behind on academic work were common themes.
For some students, falling behind in classes can make depression feel even worse.
Then its even harder to catch up.
What Percentage of College Students Experience Depression?
Depression rates among U.S. college students are at an all-time high and growing.
Unfortunately, the increasing rates of depression may also be outpacing the resources that are available to treat it.
What Really Causes Depression in College Students?
Leaving home for the first time can be an exciting but also challenging time for many students.
Going to college often means leaving behind social connections and support and starting over in a new environment.
For most students, college is their first experience living away from home.
Students are also dealing with a lot of pressure to perform well.
This stress can affect well-being and contribute to feelings of inadequacy and helplessness.
They may feel disconnected from their old friends and struggle to form new friendships in an unfamiliar environment.
Thislack of social supportmay contribute to depression.
Financial Stress
Paying for school and managing living expenses can create additional pressures.
Research has also found that 82% of college students who experiencesuicidal thinkingalso experience sleep disturbances.
Unfortunately, such substance use is also associated with increased depressive symptoms.
Unique global concerns facing today’s generation of college students can also contribute to depression.
This can include environmental worries,climate anxiety, political turmoil, social justice issues, and other concerns.
These effects can be distressing and far-reaching.
They can also potentially interfere with a student’s long-term academic and professional goals.
The toll on a student’s academic life can be severe.
Extracurricular activities, social events, and hobbies that they used to enjoy lose their appeal.
This often means that they stop participating in these activities altogether.
Physical Health
Depression can also affect a college student’s physical health.
When people are depressed, they also experience increases in stress hormones such as adrenaline andcortisol.
This stress response is associated with a variety of health effects, including impaired immunity.
“Make a list of some of the potential challenges you may face.
when you’ve got a list, brainstorm some ways you’ll tackle these challenges.
Treatment options can include on- or off-campus options.
They can provide further options about mental health services that are available on-campus or refer you to off-campus providers.
Your doctor or therapist may recommend a few different options to treat your depression.
Therapy
Duringtalk therapy, you might discuss the challenges you are facing with a professional.
Your therapist can help you gain insights, improve relationships, and develop new coping skills.
Resources for Professional Help
Dr. Dwenger recommends reaching out forprofessional supportsooner rather than later.
“Dont take a stab at hide it when you find yourself falling behind or missing commitments.
You just need to pay attention, listen, and connect students to help if they need it.
Colleges and universities must offer comprehensive support for students experiencing depression.
Schools can help by promoting depression awareness and working tocombat the stigmathat might prevent students from seeking help.
Such accommodations may include more time to complete assignments or additional time on exams.
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