Resuming to school as a new student can be exciting, but it can also be daunting and lonely because depression and other mental health issues impact a large number on college and university students. Sadness, guilt, trouble focusing, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and suicidal ideation are all symptoms of depression, a severe mental disorder. If you’re a college student dealing with depression, you can learn to cope more efficiently by mitigating your symptoms, practicing stress-reduction techniques, getting the help you need, and overcoming stigma or shame.
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Get plenty of rest.
Sleep is important for mental and physical health, and not having enough of it can increase depression. It can be difficult to get enough sleep in college. To be safe, most young adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Eat healthy food
Eating and drinking the right foods will make you feel better, focus better, and sleep better. It is important to stay away from foods and beverages that aggravate depression symptoms.
Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided.
Although having a drink or two with your buddies now and then can be a fun way to socialize and let off steam, excessive alcohol intake can have a negative impact on your mood and health. Firstly, it can make you sick and tired, disrupt your sleep, and intensify depression symptoms. Secondly, It may also lead to more serious health problems including liver disease, stomach problems, and cardiovascular disease.
Spend your time doing things that you enjoy.
Set aside some time per week for socializing and having fun. Taking time to relax and enjoy yourself will improve your mood and help you be more productive. Every evening, set aside an hour for dinner or just hanging out with your friends. Make a daily schedule for yourself to play a game or watch an episode of a show you enjoy.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
It is possible to end up with too much on your plate while balancing classes, homework, extracurricular activities, and your social life. University life can feel much more stressful if you have family or job responsibilities.
In other words, Don’t take on additional responsibilities, such as taking more courses than are expected per semester.
If your schoolwork is overwhelming you, speak to your academic counselor or friends.
Make contact with your friends and relatives.
Loneliness, homesickness, and social isolation may all play a role in depression. Don’t be afraid to reach out to family members or friends with whom you feel secure discussing your feelings.
Tell someone you trust or a roommate how you’re feeling. You may discover that they are going through many of the same issues as you.
Take the time to speak with your family or friends back home. If you’re having trouble making friends on campus, consider joining a support group or joining a student association to meet people who are dealing with similar problems.
Keep in mind that you’re not alone.
University students are particularly prone to depression and anxiety, because Nearly half of college students polled on mental health problems say they have sought help for depression or other mental health issues always remember that there’s a fair chance that someone you meet – a student, roommate, or acquaintance – is going through something similar to you.