You’re Depressed! And You don’t Know It

There is so much that goes on on a Nigerian university campus. From lectures and group projects to social events and sporting activities, a Nigerian student’s life is filled with organized chaos, and something is always happening. However, amid this vibrant environment, many students are silently battling a formidable foe: depression. The alarming part? Many don’t even realize they are suffering from it.

In a study conducted at a Nigerian university, 58% of the students had depression, while 37.0%, 15.7%, 3.9%, and 1.67% had mild, moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression, respectively. Some of the factors that cause stress and frustration are but are not limited to, the overloaded academic calendar, financial constraints, unhealthy relationships with lecturers or their peers, etc.

The Silent Epidemic. That is what it is called. Depression often sneaks up on people, camouflaging itself as everyday stress or temporary sadness. It’s easy to dismiss persistent feelings of hopelessness or fatigue as just a phase, especially when you’re surrounded by peers who seem to have it all together. In a culture where mental health is often stigmatized and misunderstood, acknowledging that you might be depressed can feel daunting.

As a student, anything can lead to feelings of depression. With long lecture hours, multiple social events, and lots of bills that need paying, the life of a student can easily be upended and plunged into feelings of depression. Recognizing depression is the first step toward seeking help. Here are some subtle signs that you might be experiencing depression:

Signs You Might Be Depressed Without Knowing It

• Constant Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep, is a common symptom of depression. If you’re constantly exhausted despite not exerting yourself physically or mentally, it might be more than just tiredness. Sometimes it’s not just tiredness from lectures, it could mean something more.
• Loss of Interest in Activities: Activities that used to bring you joy and excitement now seem dull and uninteresting. Whether it’s a favorite sport, a hobby, or spending time with friends, losing interest in these activities can be a red flag.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Depression can significantly affect your sleep. You might find yourself sleeping too much or struggling with insomnia. Pay attention if your sleep habits have drastically changed without any clear reason. Coming back from a long day of classes and not being able to sleep may mean more than you think.
• Persistent Sadness or Irritability: Feeling sad, empty, or irritable most of the time, without a specific cause, is a classic sign of depression. If these feelings linger for weeks or months, it’s time to take them seriously.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Struggling to focus on your studies, forgetting things easily, or feeling like your mind is in a fog can be indicative of depression. If concentrating on simple tasks has become a challenge, depression might be the culprit.
• Changes in Appetite: Noticeable changes in your eating habits, such as overeating or losing your appetite, can be linked to depression. If your relationship with food has changed drastically, it’s worth examining further.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Constantly feeling like you’re not good enough, excessively blaming yourself for things that aren’t your fault, or experiencing overwhelming guilt are significant indicators of depression.

Breaking the Stigma

In Nigeria, mental health issues are often misunderstood and stigmatized. Many people believe that mental health problems are a sign of weakness or a result of not being “strong” enough. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.

It’s crucial to break these misconceptions and understand that depression is a medical condition, not a personal failure. Just like any other illness, it requires proper diagnosis and treatment. Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-awareness. If you suspect you might be depressed, don’t ignore it. Here are some steps you can take:

• Talk to Someone You Trust: Share your feelings with a friend, family member, or mentor. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re going through can provide immense relief. Even if it’s a roommate from the hostel or someone from your department that you trust. Talk to someone!
• Visit the Campus Counseling Center: Most universities have counseling services available for students. Professional counselors can provide support and guide you through your feelings.
• See a Healthcare Professional: A doctor or mental health specialist can diagnose depression and recommend treatment options, such as therapy or medication.
• Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote your well-being, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, like meditation and deep breathing, can also be helpful.
• Join Support Groups: Connecting with others who are experiencing similar struggles can provide a sense of community and understanding. Joining extracurricular school groups such as Rotaract and other noble organizations will help with the struggles that you might be facing.

Remember, You’re Not Alone!

Depression is more common than you might think, and it’s okay to admit that you need help. By acknowledging your feelings and seeking support, you’re taking a critical step toward healing. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. There is help available, and with the right support, you can overcome depression and reclaim your happiness. Your mental health matters, and you deserve to live a life full of joy and fulfillment.