How to Minimize Your Chances of Becoming Depressed in College

I'd like to mention that in college there are those late nights of cramming and getting projects done through the wee hours. Oh and the tendency to have a beer or two while doing homework. No wonder depression is easy to get in college. Alcohol and lack of sleep is only asking for trouble when you've got the stress of deadlines.

I just found your blog today and I would like to thank you for sharing your experiences with us!

I was first diagnosed with major depression when I was in college.  Like you, I had been depressed most of my childhood.  What I had been able to keep to myself for so long finally escalated out of control at college.  I am so grateful for all the help I received, as I would not be here without it. 

Thank you for helping to get the word out about depression to college students and their families.  It is important for them to be educated about depression for their own well being and that of their friends.

Keep up the good work!  I'll be a regular reader from now on :)

Like Deborah and Lily,

I had a bout of depression in the first term of College. I had had depression on and off since childhood too with a serious bout at 14.

I unfortunately was like the girl who went home in your story Deborah....I was a mess. It wasn't as straight forward as major depression like I had at 14 and again at 33 but a mixture of low grade depression and stress caused by so many changes which were occurring in my life right at that time.  Anyway I remember standing on the third floor balcony of the residential college and thinking it might be a good idea to jump! Good thing I didn't have the courage..I have gone on to bigger and better things...a change of direction for the best. Fortunately my parents were very supportive. I had studied very hard the year before and was Dux of my high school. I had six months off and went back to a different college and new course. Nothing really went wrong with the plan. I just needed some time out.

My son is about to start Uni this year and I will be watching him carefully. Although I don't think he is prone to depression he doesn't venture too far from home, so the local uni is the best option.Not having to live away from home minimises the changes. Fingers crossed he gets in....we are still waiting....and he is grumpy! Maybe the first sign....we'll see. Thanks for the great information. R