Originally published September 19 2005
At least 10 percent of college students are diagnosed with depression
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Around 10 percent of college students are diagnosed with depression, according to the American College Health Association, and a University of Pittsburgh study shows young adults between the ages of 18 to 25 are especially susceptible to mental health problems, like depression, perhaps because of the various stress triggers present during that time period.
Constant time commitments and emotional pressures can take a serious toll on a student's health, which suggests that stress and depression are related, psychologists said.
Approximately 10 percent of college students are diagnosed with depression, with an untold number suffering through their illness in silence, according to the American College Health Association.
Kala Annambhotla, a psychologist at Counseling and Psychological Services program, said she thinks the reason for many instances of depression in college is not school itself, but the many stressful "triggers" students encounter while at a university.
A study at the University of Pittsburgh determined that the ages of 18 to 25 are the prime years for serious mental health issues, like depression, to arise in an adult's life.
"Stress can precipitate people to feeling depressed," said Binder, who agreed stress could definitely play a role in a student's mental health.
Pre-business sophomore Brad Miner said he thinks the assortment of new commitments and experiences that come with college do take a toll on his healthy lifestyle.
"Last year there were two or three days where I didn't even eat because I was just so busy," Miner said.
Annambhotla cited an assortment of potential depression triggers, including heightened academic expectations, alcohol abuse, eating disorders, relationship troubles or ongoing family problems.
Pre-education freshman Craig Winchell said in the case of his friend's depression, stressing out about trouble back at home was the trigger of her mood change.
"When she had troubles in school or with friends there was nothing for her to go back to," Winchell said.
Two of the most effective options are cognitive behavioral therapy, which works on students' beliefs and expectations about themselves, and interpersonal therapy, which focuses on student relationships, Annambhotla said.
Additional possible treatments include group therapy sessions, yoga, meditation and acupuncture.
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