Strategies for Success > Health and Wellness > Signs of Depression

Recognize the warning signs of depression

If you experience high levels of stress at any period of your life - including during your years of graduate study-you become vulnerable to depression.

Mild depression is not uncommon among graduate students. It can signal the beginning of a period of change and growth. It can point you in the correct direction for your future life and career.

If depression becomes immobilizing and reduces your pleasure in life, you may have a depressive disorder. The U.S. National Institute of Mental Health defines a depressive disorder as "an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks about things. A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away."

Depression is a common condition. If you do experience depression, recognize that you are not alone. According to the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, about 5-12 percent of men and 10-25 percent of women will have at least one episode of major depressive disorder during their lifetimes. Females have higher rates of major depression than males by a ratio of two to one.

Common signs and symptoms of depression include the following:

• a persistent sad or "empty" mood
• loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed
• loss of appetite or weight loss
• sleep problems
• fatigue, despite adequate sleep
• feelings of pessimism, guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• indecisiveness, difficulty concentrating
• psychomotor slowing or agitation
• thoughts of wanting to escape, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts

If you think you are depressed, take the online depression screening test from NYU Dept. of Psychiatry.

If you believe you are experiencing significant depression, make an appointment to visit the U of M Student Counselling and Career Centre.  The counselling staff have considerable experience talking with students who are depressed and are a good source of support. Services and programs are available to help students manage depression effectively.

Sometimes depression can become so severe that it can result in suicidal feelings or thoughts. Suicidal feelings are more likely to occur when people experience stressful events such as major losses or personal setbacks. If you experience suicidal thoughts or feelings, the most important things to do are to:

• Communicate these thoughts to someone. Don't suffer in silence.
• Contact the U of M Student Counselling and Career Centre.
• Allow yourself time to deal with your feelings. Make taking care of yourself by getting support your top priority.
• Recognize that these feelings are temporary and will subside as you implement coping strategies. 
• Recognize that you are not alone. Many people have thoughts of suicide.
• Accept the fact that you are a valuable human being regardless of life set-backs and losses. Don't confuse your human worth with achievement-related success.