Depression & Anxiety

Depression and Anxiety can and often do have a significant impact upon your academic functioning. Everyone goes through periods of "being down" or being upset. However, when these feelings impact your ability to participate in your life, it might help if you consider seeking professional help. Depression can last much longer than a few days, and can continue to come back.

The National Institue of Mental Health has provided the following guidelines to help you determine whether you might need professional help.

Seek help if these symptoms are keeping you from finding the joy in life:

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood

Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, helplessness

Loss of interest or pleasure in doing everyday, ordinary things

Sleep disturbances ranging from insomnia to oversleeping

Changes in eating patterns

Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempt

Increased restlessness and irritability

Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions

Physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive disorders chronic pain that don't respond to medical treatment

Use of alcohol or drugs to mask feelings of depression

If you want to find out more information about suicide prevention, visit the ULifeline website.

If you are interested in getting more information about suicide and how to effectively address the problem, you may want to visit the Survivors of Suicide website.

Please note: Information is not a substitute for medical treatment or psychological care. For help with the physical and emotional problems talk to your physical and a competent mental health care professional.