Sonoma State Star

Issue date: 10/7/08 Section: News

If you had a problem with one of your classes, you would talk to your academic advisor; if you were struggling at sports you would talk to your coach; but what if you found yourself feeling sad, anxious or stressed? Every academic year millions of students are affected by depression, anxiety or a related mental health issue. Yet social stigma, confusion and a simple lack of knowledge of the resources available prevent many from seeking out the help they need. In many cases, these common mental health concerns go undiagnosed and are misunderstood. So students suffer in silence, even though both depression and anxiety are highly treatable and reversible conditions. If you have been feeling down lately, you are not alone. According to a recent survey by the American College Health Association, 43 percent of college students report feeling so depressed they could not function. What's worse: Depression is the leading cause of suicide. In students between the ages of 15-19, suicide is the second leading cause of death; and it is the third leading cause of death for those between the ages of 20-24. Some common symptoms of depression and anxiety include:

* Changes in sleep and/or appetite

* Problems with concentration

* Fatigue and/or loss of energy

* Decreased interest in activities

* Feeling of worthless, hopelessness, and/or guilt

* Sadness and/or irritability

* Excessive worry

* Muscle tension

* Restlessness, agitation, and/or feeling on edge

During Mental Health Awareness Week (10/6-10/10), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) will be offering free anonymous screenings for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The screenings will take place at the Stevenson Breezeway on Wednesday (10/8) and Thursday (10/9) from 11:30 to 1:30 both days.

At the screening, you can fill out a questionnaire and talk with a counselor about your personal situation. Even if you don't have a mood or anxiety disorder and are just going through a couple of bad days, you are invited to come take advantage of the screenings and learn about CAPS services. You may learn something that will help you or a friend in the future.

If you are unable to come to the screenings or just prefer to talk with someone one-on-one, you can come to CAPS during our drop-in hours, Monday-Thursday at 12:00 or 3:00, and Fridays at noon.

You can also log on to our web site at www.sonoma.edu/counselingctr and access our free, anonymous mental health screenings on line. For more information about the screenings or any of our services, please call CAPS at 707-664-2153

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