DISABILITY SERVICES
DCHE.com, LRP Publications - October 2003
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Depression - What to Look For and How to Help
As someone who works closely with students on a regular (daily/weekly) basis, you may be privy to information from students or observe subtle behavioral changes in their behavior that may indicate depression. According to the University of Michigan Depression Center, as many as 15% of students may have signs of depression, and about 10% of students come to campus with a history of depression. Educating yourself about what to look for can help you pick up on those signs, and early referral for screening and counseling may improve students' chances for both academic success and symptom management.
Here are some signs to look for:
- Poor performance in school
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Sadness and hopelessness
- Lack of enthusiasm, energy or motivation
- Anger and rage
- Overreaction to criticism
- Feelings of being unable to satisfy ideals
- Poor self-esteem or guilt
- Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness
- Restlessness and agitation
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Substance abuse
- Problems with authority
It may feel uncomfortable to bring something like depression up with students, and it is always prudent to use discretion and tact in these situations. If you are not comfortable making a direct referral for counseling, there are a few indirect approaches you can take.
- Make statements to the students based on your behavioral observations - keep them impersonal and non-judgmental ("I've noticed that."; "You seem to be.")
- Indicate your concern to the student and let them know there are people on campus they can talk to about issues that are interfering with their academic performance (Theresa Busch, Jill Davis)
- If their grades are suffering, instructors can make a Counselor Referral, and accompany it with a personal note or e-mail to the Counselor stating that you suspect depression or some other emotional problems may be a factor in the student's performance
Students may or may not follow up on your referrals, and how and when they deal with their issues is ultimately up to the students. However, knowing that someone cared enough to ask, and being aware of the support opportunities on campus and in the area may get someone experiencing depression to seek out the help they need.
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