Do I have major depression?
Major depression is a serious common medical condition that involves the mind and body. Many people don’t realize that there are emotional and physical symptoms of depression. Depression significantly affects a person’s appetite, sleep, energy, thinking, self-esteem and physical well-being. The symptoms are persistent and not the same as a temporary blue mood or normal emotional experiences such as sadness or grief. Depression can have severe consequences in terms of suffering and disability.

How do I know if I have major depression?
The symptoms of depression include:

Not everyone with depression experiences every symptom. The number and severity of symptoms vary among individuals and over time.

You are not alone if you have major depression!
According to a 2004 survey by the American College Health Association, nearly half of all college students report feeling so depressed at some point in time that they have trouble functioning, and 15 percent meet the criteria for clinical depression.

Major depression affects nearly 20 million adults in the US in any given year. The symptoms can last months to years if untreated. Half of those who experience a first episode of depression will have at least one other episode in their lives. One out of four young adults will experience a depressive episode by age 24 years. Depression runs in families and females have depression twice as commonly as males. All ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic groups are affected.

Are there other types of depression?
Major depression, also known as unipolar or clinical depression is only one type of depressive disorder. Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression that keeps one from feeling or functioning well. Bipolar depression, the depressed phase of bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder, has similar symptoms as major depression but requires a different approach to treatment.

How did I get this way?
The exact cause of depression is not completely understood. Biological, psychological and environmental factors may all contribute to its development. Imbalance of the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine are thought to be involved in major depression. Scientists also have evidence for a genetic contribution to major depression. The following life events may play a role in the development, reoccurrence or accentuation of depression: chronic stress, death of a loved one, divorce or family separation, breakup of a friendship or romance, financial or academic problems, lack of a support system, trauma, assault, and alcohol or drug abuse. Some illnesses and medications may also trigger depression.

What are common myths about depression?

What is the treatment that will make me feel better?
Major depression is highly treatable. The first step to getting treatment is a diagnostic evaluation for depression by a physician or a qualified mental health professional. A physical examination by a physician or health care provider can rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. A variety of treatments are available including medications, short-term talk therapy (psychotherapy) or a combination of both. Medications adjust the levels of the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters). It usually takes a few weeks of treatment before a therapeutic effect occurs.

How serious is major depression?
Young adulthood is a critical period. Major depression increases the likelihood of substance abuse, impairs school and work function and influences an individual’s subsequent development in a negative way. Depression can also co-occur with other disorders including physical illnesses and other mental disorders such as anxiety and eating disorders. If left untreated depression can lead to suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for those aged 15-24 and the second leading cause of death of college students.

How do I know if I need further evaluation and treatment?
A person may recognize the symptoms of depression themselves or others may notice persistent symptoms that cause distress and interfere with day-to-day functioning in school, work and other personal areas. Making an appointment for evaluation and treatment by a student health/counseling service professional or other health care provider is an important step towards feeling better. If you are in a suicidal crisis, get help immediately by contacting an on-campus mental health professional or health care clinician, emergency room or call the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline (800-SUICIDE /800-784-2433).