Depression
A “whole body” illness involving persistent sad, anxious or “empty” moods. Includes feelings of hopelessness, pessimism and loss.
Symptoms*:
- Frequent headaches
- Aches & pains with no apparent cause
- Digestive problems
- Sexual dysfunction
- Falling grades
- Irritability
- Social withdrawal
- Low energy
- Poor concentration
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Thoughts of suicide or death
- Feeling “slowed down”
*An individual may not experience every symptom for the same amount of time
Causes:
- Stressful life events
- Psychological make up
- Personal loss
- Heredity & biochemical makeup
- Fluctuating hormone levels
Treatments:
- Talking with trusted peers
- Setting realistic goals & gradual changes
- Antidepressant medication
– Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI)
– Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
For more information:
For more information about resources available at Student Health & Counseling Services, contact:
Counseling & Psychiatry Services
(510) 885-3735
