Depression

Sometimes it’s hard to understand why we feel down and it can be difficult to seek help. Maybe it's a reaction to things that affect you more than you realise. For example: Have you gone through a separation, or had a stressful time lately? Or have you been through something earlier in life that still affects you?

When you feel that something is not right it can be good to take a moment to reflect on your life and your situation. Ask yourself if there is a balance between demands and recovery in your life and make sure you have time to do things that you enjoy.

It is important to know that depression is common and it doesn't mean that something is wrong with you. Being depressed has a major impact on your everyday life. Depression is mainly characterised by that you feel sad and/or irritable and you might have lost interest in things you usually find pleasurable. Other symptoms are trouble concentrating, loss of appetite, problems with sleep, feelings of guilt and worthlessness and aches. It’s also common with hopelessness and to question if life is worth living. It may feel all dark but there is help to get, for example at a health centre.

Treatment for depression can differ. Often it’s helpful to talk to a therapist and together begin to look at your entire life situation. If you have severe problems psychological treatment for depression might not be enough. You may then also need to get antidepressant medication prescribed by a doctor.

What's important is that you take your problems seriously and that you don’t hesitate to seek help. A first step can be to contact us at Student Health Service by calling our telephone counselling for advice.