Student Health and Wellness Services

Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is the most common health problem for college students. Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a serious mood disorder that affects that how you feel, think, and handle daily activities.

You should know:

  • Depression is a medical illness.
  • Depression can be treated.
  • Early treatment is best.
  • Cal Poly Pomona offers free or low-cost mental health services to students.

Sadness is only a part of depression and some people with depression may not feel sadness at all. If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:

  • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
  • Irritability
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
  • Decreased energy or fatigue
  • Moving or talking more slowly
  • Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
  • Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
  • Appetite and/or weight changes
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
  • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Someone with depression may experience all, some, or only a few of these symptoms. Don’t ignore or try to hide the symptoms. It is not a character flaw and telling yourself to “Get Over It” will not help.

  • Make an appointment with Counseling and Psychological Services (909) 869-3220 to speak with a professional if you’re concerned that you have depression.
  • After Hours: Call (909) 869-3220, and press “2” when prompted to speak with a crisis counselor
  • IF YOU ARE HAVING A LIFE-THREATENING MEDICAL OR PSYCHIATRIC EMERGENCY AT ANY TIME, PLEASE CALL 909-869-3070 (UNIVERSITY POLICE IF ON-CAMPUS) OR 911 (IF OFF-CAMPUS).
  • Aurora Charter Oak Hospital(7.6 miles)
    (Psychiatric emergencies only)
    1161 E. Covina Blvd. Covina, CA
    Phone: (800) 654-2673
    (North of the 10 fwy on Grand & E. Covina Blvd.)

For more information:

National Institutes of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=home

National Alliance on Mental Illness: https://nami.org/depression