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All of us have felt "down" or discouraged at times in our lives when perhaps things were not going well. There are normal variations in our moods over time and even day-to-day. However, depression is a disturbance in our mood where we may feel particularly unhappy, discouraged, lonely, or negative towards ourselves.

Depression may range from the very mild, moderate, to severe forms of this condition depending upon the symptoms associated with each condition and the extent the condition interferes with our everyday functioning. In the milder cases of depression, our down or depressed moods are usually brief in duration and may have little effect on following through on our everyday activities. Cases of depression that are more moderate to severe include symptoms that are stronger or more intense, last a longer duration of time, and tend to interfere more with our functioning in usual activities or in our relationships.

Some of the symptoms of depression include depressed mood, lack of interest or pleasure, hopelessness or thoughts of suicide, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, diminished motivation and ability to concentrate, and disturbances in sleep and/or appetite.

There are many things people can do to help cope with depression. One of the best steps to take is to make an appointment with a trained counselor to evaluate the nature of the depression and the most appropriate methods and strategies to help deal with it. More information and help is available on the Virginia Tech campus through the counseling center. You can make an appointment to discuss your concerns with a counselor by calling Cook Counseling Center at 231-6557.