Coping With University Depression
University is said to be ‘the best times of your life’. This is the time where you may begin your adult life, move away from home and make a new start as an independent individual. Or even expand your knowledge as a mature student returning to study. However the stress of university life and coping with depression may make it harder for some people and they may struggle with their studies during this time.
If you’re currently at university or you’re thinking of attending university, there are a lot of factors you should take into account when deciding on a university, or wanting to find ways to manage with depression whilst you’re at university. Here are some basic ways for you to maintain a healthy and happier time whilst at university and cope with depression.
Location
When I came to choosing my university, I struggled to decide whether I should stay close to home, or leave the nest and become more independent. Some people like to leave their past behind, or have thoughts about their home town that can trigger their depression and move far away. Others find comfort in the current support they have around them with friends and family and choose to study closer to home, or commute to a local school. It is important to consider the possibility of depression after moving. If you are worried that living with new people or moving to a new place will cause more stress or increase your levels of depression, there is nothing wrong with staying local or commuting to your nearest university. However, if you want to live independently, you should not let your depression hold you back from your potential either. Aim for a decision based on your mental health and your own wants and needs.
Support
Regardless of whether you are currently studying or you’re considering furthering your education, you should be made aware of the support that is made available to you. If you are struggling to cope with assignments, exams, socialising and depression, universities usually have a student support in place to help you. Do not be afraid to talk to your lecturers or someone you feel comfortable talking to about seeking help through the university.
Extensions can be granted if you need them for essays. Counselling/therapy services may also be available. It is important to know what your options are in case you feel like you find it too much to struggle with university and depression. There are people there who want to help you succeed with the least amount of stress possible whilst attending college and you should not hesitate to find the right support you see fit. People with depression may lack concentration or motivation to do tasks such as writing, attending classes and revising for exams. The more aware you make the university’s support system aware of what daily life is like for someone with depression, the more they can help you.
