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Depression

Everyone has experienced feelings of depression at one time or another. These feelings commonly follow loss or disappointment and they usually pass in a few hours or days. When depressive feelings, however, persist and interfere with one's health and social well-being, intervention or professional help may be helpful.


Symptoms of Depression

  • Deep sadness or depressed mood
  • Crying more than normal
  • Irritable
  • Spending more time alone than usual
  • Friends distancing themselves or you distancing yourself from friends
  • Sleeping more/less than normal
  • Loss of appetite/overeating
  • Loss of interest in things that were pleasurable
  • Lack of motivation
  • Suicidal thoughts

Coping with Depression 

  • Gain insight from the causes of your depression and gain power over how you handle the stress.
  • Be aware of the cause of your depression and try to be optimistic about the future.
  • Try to be aware of your negative thoughts and replace them with positive ideas.
  • Focus on your positive experiences.
  • Make a weekly list of your positive accomplishments.
  • Get socially active.
  • Make a weekly schedule of your daily activities and do not forget to include social activities.
  • Find a hobby or two.
  • Exercise daily.
  • Use self-relaxation techniques whenever you feel tense. For example, slowly breathe in and out for several minutes until your whole body feels relaxed.
  • Do some volunteer work to keep you active.
  • Set realistic goals.
  • Learn to accept that everyone has different abilities and focus on your unique characteristics and positive accomplishments.
  • Be assertive when you are expressing anger.
  • Try to know and develop your strengths.
  • Get professional help if symptoms of depression persist. 

Additional Resources


If you feel you need help with depression or any of the factors associated with it, please contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 850.474.2420 or visit our center in Building 960, Suite 200A, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. to set up an appointment.