Starting University is an exciting time, filled with new opportunities, experiences and challenges for students.
However, for many first-year students, the step into adulthood can bring feelings of stress, anxiety and loneliness, with around 1 in 6 undergraduate students reporting experiencing mental health challenges as of September 2023.
“While it’s normal to feel overwhelmed during this significant life change, it’s crucial to recognise when these feelings may be indicative of something more serious, such as depression” commented Dr Paul Wallang, Consultant Psychiatrist at Cardinal Clinic Mental Health Hospital.
Depression is a common mental health condition that can affect anyone, with first-year university students being particularly vulnerable due to a new environment, academic pressures, and social changes. As Freshers’ Week commences across the country and the academic years begin, being aware of the key signs of depression can help struggling students and those around them take action.
Signs and symptoms of depression in students include:
· Persistent Sadness or Irritability: Students may experience prolonged periods of sadness, emptiness, or irritability that interfere with their daily functioning and overall well-being.
· Loss of Interest or Pleasure: Losing interest in activities once enjoyed, withdrawing from friends, hobbies or extracurricular activities can all be warning signs.
· Changes in Sleep Patterns: Depression can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or excessive sleeping.
· Changes in Appetite or Weight: Changes in appetite, leading to significant weight gain or loss over a short period.
· Fatigue or Low Energy: Students with depression may complain of feeling tired or fatigued, even after adequate rest or sleep.
· Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions: Depression can impair cognitive function leading to difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making.
· Physical Symptoms: Depression can manifest with physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, or other unexplained aches and pains.
· Social Withdrawal: Withdrawing from social interactions, avoiding friends, family members, or social activities they once enjoyed.
Recognising the signs of depression early can make a significant difference in a first-year university student’s experience. By being aware and proactive, students and their support networks can help ensure that the university journey is not only successful but also emotionally healthy.
Sadie Taylor, a student from the University of Lincoln, suffered with depression in her first year ‘The signs were easy to miss, not wanting to get out of bed, eating badly, easily irritable and feeling low. I put it down to late nights and missing home, but as the year progressed and anxiety came into the picture it was clear to see this wasn’t just part of being a fresher.”
“I wish I’d spoken to someone sooner. I waited until I felt really low to seek help and spoke to a therapist. I’d recommend not keeping it to yourself, I know it’s easier to not open up and to pretend everything is okay, but honestly in the long run you will thank yourself for being open about it.”
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Across universities in the UK, dedicated support services are in place to assist all students.
For example, the Royal Holloway University of London highlights, “Our wellbeing team is here to support you with all aspects of your mental health and wellbeing. You have access to an NHS-run on-campus medical health centre, counsellors offering workshops and individual sessions, wellbeing advisers, and a multi-faith chaplaincy.”
No matter which university you attend, similar support is available. Your University’s Student Union is a great first step in finding the resources you need.
If you would like to enquire about mental health care at Cardinal Clinic, you can call us on 01753 869755. Alternatively, if you wish to refer yourself for mental health care, you can complete our self referral form.
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