By Heather Kryszak

College is a time of new beginnings.  One of the many aspects about going to college is the endless number of choices students have.  Being away from home and having independence both motivates and excites students.

Ten percent of college students have been diagnosed with depression.  The National Institute of Mental Health released the following list of common symptoms of depression:

• sadness
• anxiety
• fatigue
• loss of interest in activities
• sleep disturbances
• appetite and weight change
• feelings of hopelessness
• guilt
• thoughts of suicide
• difficulty concentrating
• making decisions or remembering
• irritability or excessive crying 

Everyone has some of these symptoms at certain points in life; that is normal.  But, one should become concerned if he or she is feeling five or more of the aforementioned symptoms for longer than two weeks. For more information visit the National Mental Health Association.

Thom Walsh, an alumnus of Buffalo State College knows all too well symptoms of depression.

“I never wanted to go to college, my family basically forced me. When I got there I was like party, party, party. I always thought I was ready for the real world but then the day of graduation I was an emotional wreck – I didn't want it to happen. I thought to myself, ‘I am not ready to face the real world, what if I fall flat on my face? Am I going to get a good job so that I can live comfortably and pay my student loans?’ But when I was sitting there in my cap and gown I started to think of all that I have accomplished while I was here at Buff State, and though you work four or five years for tiny piece of paper it means everything.”

Depression is something that can be treated. Students have resources in the health services centers on campus.  Counselors are available at BSC’s Weigel Health Center to talk to students about any of the problems they are having.  In addition, Richard Boyum, of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Counseling Services, has the following suggestions for reducing stress levels and enhancing the college experience:

• Stick with the basics – eat right, exercise and get enough sleep.
• Eliminate the use of alcohol as a drug.
• Keep your space and consequently your mind organized.
• Go to class.
• Keep up with course work (the rule of thumb is two hours of study per one hour in class).
• Get involved with campus activities.
• Maintain communication with your family.
• Take advantage of campus resources and choose a career path.
• Form healthy relationships.
• Talk to someone about your problems (family member, friend, college counselor).
• Get to know your professors.

For more information about depression or other services that are offered contact Weigel Health Center at(716) 878-6711.

Contact Heather Kryszak at: kryshm19@mail.buffalostate.edu