Topic of the Month

Topic of the Month

Depression

Depression is treatable and involves emotional and psychological aspects that are linked to an imbalance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. It is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. You can't make yourself well by trying to "snap out of it". The direct causes of depression are unclear, however it is known that emotional and psychological factors can bring on a depressive disorder, such as:

  • Relationship difficulties
  • Stress
  • Personal loss
  • Emotional disorders
  • Poor nutrition

University Counseling Services and The University Student Union are partnering to bring a dynamic speaker to CSUN to discuss his comedic take on his journey with depression.

That Voice in the Wilderness is Laughing: Brian Wetzel
Thursday, April 24, 1-2 PM
West Valley Room, USU

Read more about this free lecture.

Who Gets Depression?

  • Depression affects around 19 million people in the USA each year.
  • Nearly half of all college students report feeling so depressed that they found it difficult to function during the last school year.
  • Ten percent of college students have been diagnosed with depression.
  • The first episode of depression often occurs in the young adult years.

Symptoms of Depression

  • Prolonged sadness
  • Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
  • Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety
  • Pessimism, indifference
  • Loss of energy, persistent lethargy
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness
  • Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness
  • Inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder is a condition that can last months to years if left untreated. Not everyone experiences depression in the same way. Some people may experience primarily behavioral changes, some mainly emotional changes, and still others mostly physical changes.

Dysthymia

The depressed state of dysthymia involves long-term, chronic symptoms that are less severe, but which impact the ability to be happy.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition in which a person experiences extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression). During a manic episode a person's mood is excessively high, irritable, or aggressive. It is common for a person who is manic to think nothing is wrong with their behavior even though it is distressing to friends and family.

Getting Treatment for Depression

The good news is that depression is highly treatable. Medication and/or counseling can help. Up to 80% of those treated for depression show an improvement in their symptoms within four to six weeks of beginning treatment.

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, contact:

  • University Counseling Services at (818) 677-2366
  • CSUN Helpline at (818) 349-4357
    • Sun. – Thurs. 6 PM – Midnight
    • Fri. – Sat. 7 PM – 10 PM
  • Student Health Center (818) 677-3666

Off Campus Resources

  • Northridge Hospital Emergency Services (818) 885-5396
  • Olive View Emergency Services (818) 364-4340

Helpful Online Resources

  • The National Institute of Mental Health - Nimhnig.gov
  • The National Mental Health Association - Nmha.org
  • Web site for college student mental health - Ulifeline.org