Parents are usually excited and proud to watch their children go off to college. It’s an accomplishment for both. But what happens when that excitement you feel for them isn’t being shown by them? There is a chance your college student is experiencing depression.
We are seeing a greater rate of depression among college students than ever before. Young adults at college may be living with homesickness and stress over living on their own for the first time. It’s common for college students to develop unhealthy sleep and eating patterns as well as make unhealthy decisions in activities.
Is it Sadness or Depression in your College Student?
Most college students will experience varying rates of sadness and anxiety at times. These feelings may last a few days, but will typically clear up on their own.
Depression, however, causes persistent (2 or more weeks) sadness in a college student, as well as a lack in interests he/she used to enjoy.
It’s important to recognize the signs of depression as young adults won’t reach out for help. They want to appear happy, like their peers, even though they are suffering.
For college students, signs of depression may look like irritability, a loss of interest in the activities he/she used to enjoy, a decrease in ability to concentrate, fatigue, suicidal thoughts or behavior, changes in sleep and/or eating habits (increase or decrease), tendencies toward isolation, feelings of overwhelm, and/or a decrease in grades.
Helping Your College Student with Depression
Depression requires treatment. Luckily it is very treatable. The sooner your college student receives treatment, the sooner he/she can feel better. Therapy and/or medication helps.
Treatment through a program as well as family support is extremely helpful. Colleges have counseling centers on campus which can be worked into your college student’s day.
Talk with your child if you believe he/she is exhibiting any of these symptoms and seek treatment.
Therapy in Washington, PA
If your child is showing symptoms of depression, please don’t delay. Help them get treatment immediately.
If you are struggling as a mom of a child in college, you aren’t alone. Many parents face difficulties when their children are out of the home. If you are feeling stressed, sad, or anxious, or if you would like to get to know me a little better, please call (724) 503-6670 or email me at admin@inthenowcounseling.org.
