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an appointment?
Where is
Conant House
located?
How
confidential
is counseling?
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When you are
feeling down there are many things you can try to make yourself feel
better. Some suggestions are listed below:
- Talk
to People: Share your
thoughts and feelings with somebody you trust. They may be able to
give you the support you need during this difficult time. Besides
basic support, they may have some advice.
- Brainstorm
Ways to Cope:
Depending on your situation, your depression may be the consequence of
a difficult situation. Think of all the possible ways to solve the
problems you are facing. A friend or family member might be able to
help you extend your list. After listing many ways (both realistic and
unrealistic), narrow your list and choose some options to try.
- Engage
in Physical Activity:
Make yourself do something active. There are a variety of things to
choose from that might help your mood. It may be beneficial to do
something you have never done before or haven’t done in a long time.
Ask a friend to help motivate you.
- Balance
Your Life: Stress is
sometimes associated with symptoms of depression. Therefore, it is
important to eliminate any unnecessary stress when trying to improve
you mood. Balancing your work and academics with social activities may
make things easier.
- Use
Relaxation Techniques:
If your depression appears to be caused by feeling overwhelmed,
relaxation techniques may help. There are several books available on
how to use these strategies, which include progressive muscle
relaxation, imagery, and meditation.
- Create
a Pamper Yourself List:
Make a list of things that have helped cheer you up in the past.
Include a variety of activities, such a phoning a friend, going for a
walk, drinking a cup of hot cocoa, or reading a good book.
- Journal
about Your Feelings:
Write about what is going on in your mind and the troubling
circumstances you are dealing with. This may help you better
understand your depression and think of ways to handle it more
effectively.
- Stop
Using Alcohol and Other Substances: It is extremely difficult to
tease apart the effects of drugs and depression. Sometimes the two
look very similar. Eliminating alcohol and other substances may
ameliorate your depression, and will
at least allow you to know if your depressive symptoms are from drug
use or clinical depression.
- Get
Professional Assistance:
If these suggestions don’t help you with your depression, there is
always the option of finding professional assistance. Mental health
professionals understand the symptoms of depression and know ways to
help you with your condition. Help is available even if you do not
think your symptoms are severe enough to qualify as clinical
depression. Colgate students can seek therapy or consult about
available options at Counseling & Psychological Services. C&PS
is open Monday – Friday 8:30-5:30, but if we are not open and you
need help, there is always somebody on-call. This person can be
reached by calling campus security (ext. 7333) and asking for the
counselor on call.
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