The beginning of university term has been recognised as a key time when student may be more vulnerable to depression − www.studentdepression.org is on hand to help.

As the new term commences, new and returning students will enjoy freshers celebrations and the new freedoms that university living brings – however, moving away from home and the stresses of the student lifestyle can contribute to a downward depression spiral for some.

More students than ever are seeking help for depression and research indicates that towards the end and at the start of the academic year, suicide rates rise dramatically*.

Being away from home and from familiar support networks such as friends and family can cause some to feel isolated. Money worries also weigh heavy on the minds of many students and the student lifestyle – late nights, heavy drinking and possible lack of exercise – can all increase vulnerability to depression.

The Students Against Depression website at www.studentdepression.org is on hand to help students cope throughout the year, with comprehensive information and resources in an innovative, professionally acclaimed format.

www.studentdepression.org communicates stories of student sufferers and offers a three–step guide to how to get help, making the facts simple and easy to digest. 'Desperate right now?' provides valuable advice if you're feeling suicidal or looking for instant help and guidance. 'Worried about someone?' gives advice if you're concerned for a friend or relative and offers simple and effective ways of helping others. 'Fast track' is for those looking for a 'snap-shot' run down of the key issues surrounding depression.

Within www.studentdepression.org there are pages which explore 'Common student issues', such as accommodation, finances, study and relationships, relating specifically to student lifestyle and the issues encountered at different stages of moving out of home through to final year exams.

Students Against Depression includes eye-catching 'warning signs' to help students understand depression; if you or someone you know is suffering from several of the warning signs it is possible you may be experiencing depression:


The Warning Signs

1) Persistently sad, anxious, empty or generally low mood
2) Loss of interest
3) Lethargy or decreased energy
4) Irregular sleep or change in sleep pattern
5) Appetite of weight changes
6) Increased tearfulness
7) Restlessness
8) Poor concentration and difficulty making decisions
9) Hopelessness and pessimism
10) Feelings of helplessness
11) Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
12) Thoughts of death or suicide

Please see image version of 'the warning signs' attached

The acclaimed Students Against Depression website www.studentdepression.org, winner of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Award for Innovation 2006, is a resource that serves as an aid to students and welfare officers. Denise Meyer, who is the charity's spokesperson and a chartered counselling psychologist and senior accredited counsellor, is available for further interviews on the subject of student depression specifically.

Please see www.studentdepression.org for more advice.