Effective treatments work to fight depression

Some say college is supposed to be one of the "best times of your life." But many students feel more miserable than ever, disconnected and alone. They feel sad, trapped by inertia or fatigue, hopeless and not "up to the challenge" of college. \nSome find themselves staying in bed all day, not going to classes, unable to concentrate and even uninterested in eating. Others find themselves unable to sleep, engaging in binge eating and depressively ruminating about their past, present or future. Although people experience depression differently, a common thread is that the disorder is very disruptive to their lives. A vicious cycle ensues in which depression and inactivity lead to missed classes, failed appointments and interpersonal difficulties, which lead to greater depression and inactivity. \nMisery and disappointment can then lead to despair. This is depression.\nSymptoms of depression include:\n• Persistent, sad, anxious or "empty" mood\n• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, helplessness and worthlessness\n• Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, ranging from schoolwork to sex\n• Sleeping too much or too little\n• Changes in appetite\n• Decreased energy, fatigue and feeling "slowed down"\n• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts\n• Increased restlessness and irritability\n• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions\n• Physical symptoms -- such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain -- that don't respond to medical treatment\nFortunately, effective treatments exist for depression. Eighty to 85 percent of people who receive appropriate treatment can recover fairly quickly from a depressive episode. A careful assessment by a mental health provider is recommended to determine whether a person is depressed. The mental health professional can then suggest treatment alternatives. \nThursday, the IU Health Center's Counseling and Psychological Services, in conjunction with the Center for Human Growth and Residential Programs and Services, will offer free, confidential screenings for depression and bipolar spectrum disorder. You can fill out a quick self-test and talk briefly with a counselor about your personal situation. \nThe screenings will indicate whether a more complete assessment is advisable. Even if you don't have depression and are just going through some bad days, you are invited to come take advantage of the program and learn about what services are available on campus. You may learn something that will help you or a friend or roommate in the future. \nScreenings will be offered Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Ballantine Hall Main Lobby, School of Education atrium and Gresham Food Court.