Depression

Symptoms

Feeling sad for two weeks or more without feeling better
Feelings of hopelessness
Restlessness and irritability
Changes in sleep patterns - trouble sleeping or over-sleeping
Loss of interest in hobbies
Fatigue and loss of energy
Feelings of extremely worthlessness and guilt
Weight gain or loss due to changes in appetite
Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Know the Facts

Nearly half of all college students feel so depressed at some point they have trouble functioning
Depression is more common among women than among men. Biological, life cycle, hormonal and psychosocial factors unique to women may be linked to women's higher depression rates
Men often experience depression differently (they sometimes feel angry and/or agitated) than women and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms
Depression is highly treatable with both anti-depressant medications and therapy. The earlier treatment begins the more effective it can be and the more likely that recurrence can be prevented.

Depression: What is it?

Clinical Depression is much more than just "feeling down" or feeling sad. With clinical depression, feelings of extreme sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness lasts weeks, months, or even years. When a person has a depressive disorder, it interferes with daily life, normal functioning, and relationships. The vast majority of people diagnosed with depression, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment.