Overview
Depression is a common condition and can be a very serious condition. It can negatively impact the way a person feels, thinks, and acts. It may last for a significant amount of time if left untreated. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease ability to function. It is highly treatable if you get the help you need.
Signs and symptoms
- Feeling sad/down most of the time
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite: weight loss or weight gain unrelated to dieting
- Trouble sleeping: too much or too little
- Loss of energy/increased fatigue
- Increase in purposeless physical activity (ex. pacing, inability to sit still)
- Slow movements or slow speech
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Irritability
Aches, pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease with
treatment
Causes and risk factors
- Genetics
- Biochemistry: differences in chemicals in the brain
- Environmental factors: examples include continuous violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty
- Traumatic events
- Major life changes
- Stress
- Personality: those with low self-esteem, have high stress, or are generally pessimistic
- Using alcohol and drugs
Treatment
- Medication: Antidepressant
- Psychotherapy like talk therapy, counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (changing distorted/negative thinking)
When to seek care
- IMMEDIATELY if thoughts of death or suicide
- If sad/down feelings persist for two weeks or more
Prevention
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Sufficient sleep
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Campus Resources
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
CAPS is a free mental health service on campus that is covered by student fees. They have psychologists and counselors that help to explore feelings and thoughts and learn ways to improve mental, psychological and emotional well being. They offer crisis care, after-hours, individual counseling, couples/partner counseling, groups and workshops.
- Location: University Health Center 550 N 19th Street Suite 223
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
- Phone: 402.472.7450
- Website: https://caps.unl.edu
Big Red Resilience and Well-Being
BRRWB is a free well-being resource for students that helps students understand emotions, manage stress, build strength, connect with others, develop grit and navigate transitions. Services include well-being coaching, money management, well-being assessments and more.
- Location: University Health Center 550 N 19th Street Suite 127
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday
- Email: resilience@unl.edu
- Website: https://resilience.unl.edu
- Instagram: unlresilience
Psychiatric Medication Management
Staffed by a team of psychiatric providers, this medical service includes evaluations, education and medication management. This service is not covered by student fees but can be submitted to private insurance. For urgent medication concerns, call 402.472.5000 and follow the prompts. For serious side effects after hours, visit the nearest emergency room.
- Location: University Health Center 550 N 19th Street
- Hours: Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Phone: 402.572.5000
- Website: https://health.unl.edu/psychiatric-medication-management
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- 1.800.273.TALK
- Available 24 hours
- Free and confidential