College is a really exciting time in our young adult lives. There are so many opportunities to explore new areas and try out new things. Most of the time when the topic of college is mentioned, the word "parties" and "drinking" comes to mind. However, college does not by any means revolve around that. In fact, a huge part of college is trying to find yourself, and that is not easy for most people. This can lead to a downward spiral, causing depression and anxiety.
No one talks about the depression that can come with being enrolled in college. Sure, you hear about stress and workload, but the word "depression" is so taboo in the media to the point where people are ashamed to mention it. Why are people so afraid to talk about depression? It is so common-- millions of people around the world suffer from it.
Because of all of the new settings and stress, college can become super overwhelming. Different students cope with these emotions differently, but I can assure you even the happiest person you know in college has felt depressed at some point. Still, no one talks about it. No one shares their stories.
The struggle is real when you miss your dog, your home, your family, your friends and your old teachers. You physically can't get up because you are so drained, stressed and sad. You fall behind in your class because your motivation is so low. If you have ever felt this way, I am sure that you have felt some sort of college depression.
I am tired of depression in college and in general being so taboo. I am tired of people being too stubborn to get help. I am tired of losing people to depression. I am tired of everything. In an attempt to go against the media, here is my story regarding college depression.
I was young when I first came to college. I was 17, and I would not be 18 until December of freshman year. I felt way less mature than the people around me. I made some amazing friends on my floor, but I felt pressure around me everywhere---to drink, to not be so innocent, to try things I had no intention of ever doing and I felt like I had to compete with everyone.
This alone was not healthy. I was on the pre-med track and was not prepared to take all of the demanding courses that come with it. I was severely depressed. I missed home. I hated myself, I could not do anything right. I was not doing well in my classes no matter how hard I studied. Everything felt like it was crashing down on me.
One day I got into my head more than usual and made a very poor decision. I was sent home for the rest of the semester. It was clear I needed help, but for some reason at college I didn't feel like I could talk about my feelings. I didn't want to be a burden, I figured my emotions would go away eventually but they didn't.
Many college students have to take time off from school because of the emotional toll college can take on you.
I didn't tell my story for you to feel sorry for me. I told it so you know you are not alone. Let my story inspire you to keep moving on, to tell your story and help others. College depression is real. It is common, let it be spoken about. Stop the "taboo" of this topic by sharing your story.
