Depression is a common mental health problem that varies in severity and duration.
In its less serious form, depression is a temporary reaction to loss, stress or life challenges. It can be alleviated through the passage of time and/or the natural healing effects of social support, daily routines and simple coping strategies like distraction and exercise.
Symptoms of depression can include:
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Feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness
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A deep sense of sadness
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An inability to experience pleasure
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Irregular eating and sleeping
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Difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making
- Fatigue and social withdrawal
Sometimes depression includes irritation, anxiety and anger. In its most serious form, depression can be accompanied by self-destructive thoughts and intentions as a way to escape from the emotional pain.
Research shows that depression can be highly responsive to both psychotherapy and medication.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Talk to the student in private.
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Listen carefully and validate the student’s feelings and experiences.
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Be supportive and express your concern about the situation.
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Discuss clearly and concisely an action plan such as having the student immediately call for a counseling appointment.
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Refer the student to Counseling and Psychological Services (828.227.7469). See Referring a Student for Proessional Help for more details.
- Be willing to consider or offer flexible arrangements (e.g., extension on a paper or exam), if appropriate, as a way to alleviate stress and instill hope.
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Ask if he/she has thoughts of suicide. If so, do not leave the student alone. Walk him/her over to Counseling and Psychological Services. If it is after 5:00pm, or on the weekend, access emergency services by calling 828.227.8911.
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If you feel overwhelmed or unprepared to help a depressed student, call the Office of Student Affairs (828.227.7234), which will maintain your confidentiality and arrange a meeting with the student.
AVOID
- Downplaying the situation.
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Arguing with the student or disputing that the student is feeling depressed.
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Providing too much information for the student to process.
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Expecting the student to stop feeling depressed without intervention.
- Assuming the family knows about the student’s depression.