Depression
What is Depression
- It can be genetic
- It can be asymptomatic (no symptoms)
- It is a real illness
- It is serious
- It is treatable
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
- Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
- Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
Suicide
Suicidal thoughts are more common than you may think. In 2020, over 10% of young adults (18-25) had serious thoughts about suicide (NIMH). It’s important to openly talk about suicide and know how to get help.
If you have suicidal thoughts/ideations, please set-up an appointment with the NCMC counselor. You can also reach out to the Suicide Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to 741741. For emergencies, call 911. You are not alone, so give yourself permission to get help and support.
Resources
Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support in the US
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – 988 or 1(800)273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) – 24-hour service available to anyone in need of help.
LGBT National Help Center – 1-888-843-4564
Mental Health Crisis Line/CommCare Crisis Hotline 24/7 1 (888) 279-8188
CommCare Crisis Hotline (Hearing/Speech Impaired Only) 1 (800) 955-8339
National Hopeline Network– Suicide & Crisis Hotline 1-800-442-HOPE(4673)
The Trevor Project – 1-866-488-7386
Active Minds
– Nonprofit organization dedicated to utilizing the student voice to raise mental health awareness among college students.
Depression Looks Like Me
Half of Us
– Working to create a public dialogue to raise awareness about the prevalence of mental health issues and connect students to the appropriate resources.
How To Help A Friend
– Important things to do and tips to help a friend with a mental health concern.
The Jed Foundation
– Promotes emotional health and suicide prevention among college students.
LGBT National Help Center – Serving the LGBTQ community by providing free and confidential peer support and resources.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
– Website providing information regarding support for those in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
Strength Of Us
– Online community designed to empower young adults.
The Trevor Project – Help for students who identify as LGBTQ, including crisis services, education and advocacy.
ULifeline
– An online resource for college and mental health.
Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program
– Dedicated to preventing suicide and attempts.