Depression

Depression affects people's emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral functioning in one way or another. A depressed person may dwell on negative thoughts, focus on unpleasant experiences, and describe themselves as a failure. They may feel as though they are a burden to others. Generally, family members and friends may notice other changes in the person's life in addition to their sadness or unhappiness.

Remember that not everyone who is depressed experiences all these symptoms. Symptoms and their intensity, duration, and frequency vary across individuals.

No!

Everyone is susceptible to depression. Just because you are depressed does not mean that you are weak. Abraham Lincoln, Queen Victoria, and Winston Churchill are only a few of the strong and famous people that history suggests struggled with depression.

It is important to remember that depression is not the result of laziness, personal failure or a lack of will power. Young adults and college students are susceptible to depression while coping with various demands from school, family, friends, and work.

Depression is one of the most common concerns of students coming to the Student Counseling Service. It is not a condition that you can will or wish away, e.g. by telling yourself that "I just need to snap out of it," but, it is a treatable condition.

Without treatment, depression may persist or get worse. Studies show that depression underlies the majority of suicides (some studies show that suicide is the third leading cause of death among people aged 15-24). One way to prevent suicide is the early recognition and treatment of depression.

Don't shame or blame the individual with depression. Remember that trying to make them "snap out of it," and other confrontational techniques, can make the situation worse.

Don't try to "cheer up" the depressed person. Instead, stay supportive and let the person know that you are concerned about him or her. It is useful to listen in a manner that shows understanding of the individual's difficulties. Encourage the individual to seek counseling or to consult with a mental health professional for help.

If the person has been thinking of suicide but will not seek assistance, you should consult with a mental health professional.

Miami University students can contact the Student Counseling Service (SCS) for free consultation and counseling. We offer individual and group counseling for depression.

Most depression can be treated through psychotherapy or medication. Some studies show that a combination of these interventions can be most effective. The treatment recommendations depend on the specific symptoms, duration, and severity of symptoms.

For example, the treatment of SAD typically includes the exposure to intense light under specific conditions. The treatment of Manic-Depression would need to take into account the manic or hypomanic episodes. In all, while all the depressive conditions are highly treatable and many people experience full recovery of their symptoms. However, treatment does require commitment of time and energy.

Please contact a mental health professional if you have any questions or concerns about treatment.