<p>How do you know if you’re suffering from depression?</p>
<p>Some signs:</p>
<p>Sleeping too much
Not being able to sleep
Feeling sad for extended periods of time
Change in appetite
Change in weight
Inability to concentrate
Agitation/irritablity
Feeling worthless
Thoughts of death or suicide
Inability to enjoy things you normally take pleasure in
Lack of energy</p>
<p>The usual criterion is if you feel these things for a period lasting more than 2 weeks.</p>
<p>If you feel like you might be depressed, why not just go to see a counselor. If you are at college, you can see your University’s health/counseling service for free.</p>
<p>Depression is a disease that we now have a very good handle on, which can be treated very effectively with some combination of talk therapy/counseling and medication.</p>
<p>Also, try this free anonymous online screening accessable through U Albany’s website, and offered by a number of colleges. <a href=“https://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/welcome.asp[/url]”>https://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/welcome.asp</a></p>
<p>If you feel like something’s not right, that’s definitely something you should follow up on. Make sure that you also get screened for physical problems that can cause depression, like thyroid issues.</p>
<p>My main problem is not feeling happy or sad, it’s just for the past month or so I’ve felt nothing at all really. I feel like I’ve just been existing. I’ve also started smoking more, an activity that I used to be very casual about. I also haven’t been enjoying anything at all really.</p>
<p>Drew, go and see someone in your Student Health Center. They can help. And check back in with us to let us know how it goes. I am glad you came here to ask about this.</p>
<p>Are you in HS or College? End of something or the beginning of something?</p>
<p>Either way, expectations can lead to a giant crash, and either way, it is good to talk to someone</p>
<p>Also, think about your general health…my mom was on a very strict vegan diet, not getting enough nutrients, etc, and got very depressed, mind and body are connected, so while talking to someone, take care of your body</p>
<p>Depression can lead to not eating, not eating can bring down energy, and the cycle continues</p>
<p>Sometimes depression is situational, not systemic. Sometimes, things are going on that make you feel depressed, and addressing the situation (by talk therapy and change) can alleviate the depression. Sometimes depression is deeper and really affects mood,a nd medication might be needed. A good professional can help you sort this out. Good luck.</p>
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<p>College – Freshmen</p>
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<p>A problem of mine has always been showing/talking about my feelings. I’ve never been comfortable with either.</p>
<p>I have had any dietary problems, the only thing that has increased/decreased is my cigarette use. In the past, I only smoked casually and had about a cigarette every two months. I used to NEVER buy cigarettes. Now, I’m at about one-ish a day.</p>
<p>“I’ve felt nothing at all really. I feel like I’ve just been existing”</p>
<p>Sounds like depression to me, Drew. I’ve been there and done that more than I’d ever care to count. What you describe is always the first sign that depression has come to pay me another visit. Don’t wait until you feel that life is not worth living before you seek help.</p>