Because we all experience some of the symptoms of depression at one time or another, we all have some personal knowledge of what the depressed student is going through. A depressed student is likely to be experiencing some of the following symptoms:
- Sadness, tearfulness
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Suicidal thoughts
- Loss of interest in schoolwork or usual activities
- Feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy
- Physical Symptoms
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Low energy level
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
- Guilt or anger
Facts about Suicide
It is important to take all suicidal comments seriously and to make appropriate referrals.
- College students have lower suicide rates than non-college people of the same age
- More men commit suicide; more women attempt
- Talking about suicide will not plant the idea in a person's mind
- Feeling isolated increases the likelihood of suicide
- The more developed the suicide plan, the greater likelihood for suicide
Helpful Responses
- Reach out and encourage the student to talk about his/her feelings
- Tell the student about your concern for his/her well-being
- Talk about suicide if that is on the student's mind
- Refer if suicidal (Counseling Center 389-1455, Security 389-2111 or 911)
- Frequent contact, even for a few minutes, begins to relieve feelings of isolation (encourage the student to be in contact with family, friends, counselor)
Less Helpful Responses
- Saying "don't worry" or "everything will be better tomorrow." This may only make the student feel worse.
- Becoming overwhelmed by the student's problems. This may only provide evidence that s/he should feel helpless.
- Assuming too much responsibility for the student and his/her problems
- Trying to ignore or minimize his/her feelings
