Depression is an illness. It affects the whole body, including the brain. It can change how a person feels emotionally and physically. Depression is treatable so it is important to speak with a health care provider if you experience any of the following:
Symptoms of Minor Depression
These feelings may be present for an extended period of time:
- Overeating or poor appetite
- Difficulty sleeping or wanting to sleep all the time
- Feeling as though you never have enough energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Chronic low self-esteem, pessimism or sadness
Symptoms of Major Depression
A more acute illness with symptoms of minor depression and some of these additional symptoms:
- Loss of pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Significant weight loss or gain
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Hopelessness, thinking things will never get better
- A sense of being overwhelmed by sadness or of "going crazy"
- Hard to explain, sometimes frightening, physical symptoms
- Thought of death or suicide
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
A reaction to lack of daylight. Symptoms can mimic those of minor or major depression. Occasionally people may experience this during the summer. Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder for both winter and summer include the following:
- Changes in light levels and length of daylight intervals
- Changes in ambient temperature
- Changes in humidity
- Disrupted schedules
- Body image issues, particularly during "swimsuit season"
- Financial strain from vacations
Getting Help
If you have experienced symptoms of minor depression or SAD for a while, consult a health care provider. If symptoms of major depression have been present for two weeks or more, contact a health care provider. Should you be experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact a health care provider or crisis line immediately.
Here are more helpful resources for Depression.
Treatment
Treatment options are often used in combinations. Possible treatments include:
- Talk therapy
- Medication
- Exposure to light (for treatment of SAD)
Assess
Ask
Act
Campus Resources
- Cowell Health Center
(408) 554-4501 - Wellness Center
(408) 554-4448 - Campus Ministry
(408) 554-4372
Other Resources
- National Foundation for Depressive Illnesses
1 (800) 248-4344 - National Institute of Mental Health
1 (800) 421-4211 - National Mental Health Association
1 (800) 969-6642 - National Mental Health Screening Project
1 (800) 573-4433 - Depression - About.com
- Depression - MEDLINE Plus