(Bluefield)—Depression—an extraordinary feeling of sadness or dejection—afflicts nearly 15% of all college students seen by counselors, according to Dr. Cravor Jones, Director of Counseling at Bluefield State College. He examined the causes, symptoms, and types of depression and explored treatment strategies during a “lunch & learn” program at BSC recently.

Differentiating between depression and “the blues,” Jones noted that depressive symptoms last for a much longer period (often two weeks or longer) than general feelings of sadness. “Depression has many symptoms,” he continued. “They may include persistent feelings of sadness or anxiousness, hopelessness, guilt, insomnia, and/or a diminished level of energy.”

Jones, who recently earned a doctorate degree in educational counseling from Virginia Tech, cited several causes for depression. “Major stressors, such as the death of a loved one or the loss of a job, can cause depression, as can self-esteem issues and medical problems.” He observed that women are about twice as likely as men to suffer from depression, but added that men suffering from depression are about four times more likely than women to commit suicide.

Treatment options include a growing body of antidepressant medications, but Jones cautioned that many can give rise to undesirable side effects. He also discussed herbal therapy and psychotherapy, while also mentioned the highly controversial electroconvulsive therapy.

November 15, 2005