Depression in the College Population

College can be one of the most exciting and rewarding times in an individual’s life. It represents the opportunity to pursue new knowledge, prepare for a future career and experience life in a new way. It can also be a very challenging time for students who may be at risk or already diagnosed with a mental illness. The peak for onset of depression and other psychiatric disorders is between the ages of 15-24 years of age. This means that a depressive illness can occur just when academic pressures are mounting and students are adjusting emotionally to complex life changes. These changes may include leaving home for the first time, forming new relationships, having greater access to alcohol and drugs, sleeping irregularly, and being forced to care for themselves. Being “on their own” for the first time can be overwhelming for many students.

In recent years, the number of college students diagnosed with depression or bipolar illness has increased steadily. University of Michigan research shows that as many as 15 percent of all college students may have symptoms of depression, and about 10 percent of college students arrive on campus with a history of the illness. However, depression and related illnesses can remain hidden and left untreated. The disorder may not be easily recognized by faculty or staff, or students may attempt to actively hide their symptoms because of academic or social pressures. The good news is that treatment tends to be most effective when it is begun early, especially in the years surrounding young adulthood.

In particular, it is important for new students, transfer students and student veterans to understand the warning signs of depression and have a strong support system in place. To learn more about depression in the college-aged population, please visit Campus Mind Works.

Advice for College Students

Make sure you have a dependable support system of friends, family, and campus professionals.
Avoid major disruptions to your sleep patterns, even on weekends and vacations.
Get plenty of regular exercise and eat a healthy diet. Avoid alcohol and never abuse drugs.
Manage your stress. Seek academic help when you need it and don’t be afraid to get guidance for roommate, financial or relationship concerns.
Depression is a treatable illness. If you suspect you may be depressed, see your doctor.
Treatment is ongoing—don’t stop your treatment as soon as you feel better. Always consult your doctor before making treatment changes.
If you have been receiving treatment back home, make sure you have referral arrangements worked out before you get to campus.
Campus Mind Works: Learn how to manage depression—become a partner with your clinicians, and refer to trusted books and Web sites for information.
If you are a U-M student veteran, seek the unique tools created for your successful transition to college at the U-M Veteran’s Connection.
Counteract stigma by talking about depression and using honest and appropriate language.