Depression is a very real disease that affects millions of people worldwide, according to the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-IV-TR). Not only does depression negatively affect work productivity, it influences students as well. According to the University of Michigan, thousands of students experience depression and even have suicidal thoughts.
Features
According to the DSM-IV-TR, when individuals are depressed, they often experience sad moods, which can lead to crying spells, suicidal thoughts, feelings of worthlessness or agitation. They often lose interest in activities that they used to enjoy.
Motivation/Concentration
Depression can make it difficult to concentrate, according to the DSM-IV-TR. Students need this ability to succeed in school; if they are depressed, their grades may suffer. Depression also negatively affects motivation, reports the DSM-IV-TR. When students are not motivated to do their class work, go to class or study, their grades will also suffer.
Substance Abuse
According to the University of Michigan, depression can also lead to substance abuse or vise versa.
Physical Reactions
Depression can manifest itself physically; a depressed person's body may have aches that are not due to a medical condition, reports the DSM-IV-TR. Also, depression can often cause a change in weight, mainly due to appetite changes that occur in individuals when they are depressed. Sleep patterns are often affected as well; some epressed persons suffer from insomnia, while others need to take several naps a day. Fatigue can occur in either of these instances. These physical issues related to depression can negatively affect a student's study habits and cause him to feel so ill that he misses classes.
Expert Insight
It is recommended that a depressed student receive psychotherapy and/or medication management treatment. Psychotherapy can help her find the origins of her depression and ways to alleviate it. Medication management will help balance neurotransmitters in her brain that are related to depression.
References
- American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (2000).
- University of Michigan: The Relation of Depression on Education and Academia.
