Navigating Depression in College

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well since I’m back with another blog post! 

As I’ve mentioned, I will try to write my blogs on Saturdays around 10:30 AM and post them every Thursday at 10 AM. I also have a quick announcement: I am working on my new YouTube channel and just finished revising my website. Now, I am writing short stories about disability and inclusion.

I haven’t figured out how often I will post my YouTube videos — right now, it will happen sporadically. Finding time to do things is hard when school takes up so much of my time.

I have six more months until graduation, and I am very excited. I might make my YouTube videos every weekend, but I don't know yet. I will let you know my plans when I figure things out. Now, let's get into today’s blog article. 

I usually talk about physical and invisible disabilities. Because of that, I have never really talked about depression. So today, I want to talk about dealing with depression in college. It’s vital to discover helpful strategies for dealing with depression so that you can have a better college experience. 

Understanding Depression in the College Context

College can be a challenging time for many students. Academic pressure, among other factors, can significantly contribute to depression. It can trigger depression symptoms and make coping with them much harder. College students are learning who they are and who they want to be, which can be both overwhelming and exciting. 

Recognizing the signs and stressors that students face is essential in acknowledging the importance of mental health care during this period. People who deal with depression can experience challenges that other people aren’t aware of. For example, they could be under a lot of pressure to succeed or deal with homesickness, financial burdens, and the challenge of balancing work and social life. All of these things can cause depression in college students.

Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Students

Depression can occur in many different ways. That’s why identifying its signs and symptoms is the most important step to asking for help. The signs could include sadness or hopelessness and a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy. Most students will exhibit a decrease in academic performance as well. When someone is depressed, their performance at school suffers. There’s also the risk they might drop out of school because they feel like their depression won’t get any better.

I went to a college in California called Ashford University (now the University of Arizona Global Campus). When I was there, I wasn't doing so well. The work was super hard, and I had more reading than I was used to. I was trying to get my BA in Child Development. I didn’t care enough to do my FAFSA, so they withdrew me because my attendance suffered.

Then, a year and a half later, I decided to go back to school and change my degree to English. Unfortunately, it only lasted a couple of months because that was when my uncle passed away. After that, I took academic leave in hopes of returning a month later, but I was still depressed. So, I dropped out again because I was unhappy. 

Long story short, I found out about Full Sail University during my journey with depression, so I applied and got in. I won’t lie; I still get depressed. But I have a better handle on it. I am in the BFA in the Creative Writing program and graduate next year. Despite my depression, I am now a member of the honors society (NSCS), thanks to my GPA above 3.0. I know how to handle my depression and am determined to get my degree. So, I am pushing through it. 

Where You Can Find Help

Since I am an online college student, I don’t have the proper help from school. I have a counselor I see twice a month. I also used to talk to someone from hospice. Some instructors are very understanding and trained to help people with depression have a smooth college experience. But not all of them are.

That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs by yourself. Some people think asking for help is a sign of weakness. But the truth is asking for help is a sign of strength. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help. I used to be scared to ask for help, but I’ve learned that everyone needs support sometimes. 

Self-Help Strategies for Managing Depression in College

Aside from professional help, you can use self-help strategies. When dealing with depression, you could write down your feelings or take a walk. You should also learn how to make it a regular thing to prevent future depressive episodes. You can also cook your favorite meal or dessert and do deep breathing exercises that can reduce stress. 

Having supportive friends and family members who understand what you are going through is also extremely beneficial. 

How You Can Support a Friend Dealing with Depression

If you have a friend who is struggling with depression, it is up to you to help them. When helping them, make sure you do so without judgment. Be there for them and encourage them to get professional help. 

Respecting their privacy is crucial; if they don’t want to talk about it, don’t rush them. I know when I am depressed, I don’t ask for help until I am ready. So, be understanding of others.

And one last thing: There is nothing wrong with being depressed. It’s the way you handle it that makes the difference. 

 

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