How to Avoid Depression in College

While college is a time of great excitement for many students, for others it can mean sadness and depression. Depression in college can be caused by several underlying factors primarily beginning with homesickness.

For many students, their college period is the first time they live away from home. If they aren’t prepared for this sudden change in life, it becomes extremely easy for them to fall into depression.

If you or someone you know is heading off to college soon, then continue reading as we outline some helpful tips that can keep college students from falling in despair.

• Make friends

For a large number of students, depression is caused by loneliness. Therefore, it is crucial to befriend likeminded individuals, especially during the early days of your new college life. If you have good company on your side, it will make it a lot easier for you to cope with feelings of loneliness and homesickness.

Moreover, it is advisable to avoid groups that indulge in harmful activities such as taking drugs or drinking alcohol as these not only affect your physical health, but can also take away your mental peace. Drugs, in particular, are infamous for spiraling people into depression.

• Don’t forget to exercise

Don’t just bury yourself in books studying all day while you are in college. Instead, take out the time to relax and exercise to get your body moving again. Exercising causes the body to release endorphins which is a natural antidepressant that gives the body a feeling of happiness.

• Take care of yourself

If things are moving too fast for you, slow down and take everything at your pace. Make sure you eat and sleep enough. Depriving yourself of sleep will only add to your depressed mood and may also negatively affect your academic success.

Nevertheless, if you find that you have already fallen into depression and the above tips do not help, then do the right thing and seek counseling. Never feel embarrassed. Many colleges and universities have counseling centers dedicated to students. Take advantage of them.