National Depression Screening Day is Thursday, Oct. 10

by Kathleen McCoy  |   

About one third of students have experienced depression while attending UAA. Depression can impact all aspects of life, from academics to personal relationships. But depression is a treatable medical condition. The most effective way to prevent and treat depression is to be aware of the warning signs and to know of the resources that are available. The following are some signs that may be reason for concern:

  1. Feeling hopelessness, worthlessness, depressed, angry or guilty
  2. Withdrawal from friends, family and activities that used to be fun
  3. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
  4. Feeling tired or exhausted all of the time
  5. Trouble concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions
  6. Restlessness, irritability, agitation or anxious movements or behaviors
  7. Neglect of personal care
  8. Reckless or impulsive behaviors (e.g., drinking or using drugs excessively or being unsafe in other ways)
  9. Persistent physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, digestive problems or chronic pain) that do not respond to routine treatment
  10. Thoughts about death or suicide *

For a free and confidential online depression screening, visit http://psychcentral.com/depquiz.htm

Help for depression is available and effective. The following campus resources are available for UAA students:

  • The Student Health and Counseling Center in Rasmuson Hall, suites 116 & 120 provides free counseling to full-time students and has same-day appointments available. For appointments and information call 907-786-4040.
  • The Psychological Services Center in SSB 255 provides confidential counseling for families and individuals by trained graduate students in the psychology program. For more information, call 907-786-1795.
  • The Alaska Careline is a 24-hour crisis hotline staffed by trained Alaskans. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicide or if you need help supporting someone that is struggling with suicide, call 877-266-4357.
  •  The University Campus Police Department is available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week to assist in emergencies. In the event of an emergency, call 907-786-1120.

For more information about depression and college students, visit http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-and-college-students/index.shtml

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