Depression and Anxiety

Support for SUNY Oneonta Students

College can be an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. Academic pressure, social expectations, financial stress, relationship changes, and major life decisions can all affect how students feel emotionally and mentally.

Two of the most common challenges students experience during college are depression and anxiety. Many students experience one or both at some point during their academic journey.

The good news is that these experiences are very treatable, and support can make a meaningful difference.

Understanding Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad for a day or two. It is a mental health condition that can affect how you think, feel, and function in daily life.

Students experiencing depression may notice emotional, physical, or behavioral changes.

Common emotional symptoms may include:

• Persistent sadness
• Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected
• Guilt or self-criticism
• Loss of motivation
• Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless
• Irritability or frustration

Depression can also show up physically. Some students experience:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble concentrating on schoolwork
• Headaches or stomach discomfort
• Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or too little)
• Changes in appetite

Depression can sometimes make everyday tasks—like attending class, completing assignments, or staying socially connected—feel much harder than usual.

For some students, depression may be linked to life stress, difficult experiences, trauma, or major transitions. For others, it can develop without a clear cause.

If symptoms last two weeks or longer, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional.

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety is also extremely common among college students. A certain amount of anxiety is normal, especially around exams, deadlines, or big decisions.

However, when anxiety becomes constant, overwhelming, or difficult to manage, it can begin to interfere with daily life.

Students experiencing anxiety may notice:

• Persistent worry or racing thoughts
• Difficulty relaxing or "turning off" their mind
• Trouble concentrating
• Feeling restless or on edge
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Difficulty sleeping
• Rapid heart rate or shortness of breath

Academic pressure, social expectations, uncertainty about the future, and balancing responsibilities can all contribute to increased anxiety during college.

Depression and anxiety often occur together, and one can intensify the other.

Healthy Ways to Manage Depression and Anxiety

There are many effective ways to manage depression and anxiety. Support can include a combination of approaches such as:

Counseling or Talk Therapy
Therapy provides a confidential space to explore thoughts, emotions, and stressors while learning practical coping strategies.

Medication (when appropriate)
Some students benefit from medication prescribed by a medical or psychiatric provider.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Sleep, physical activity, nutrition, and daily routines can all play a role in supporting mental health.

Stress Management Skills
Learning tools for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and time management can reduce overwhelm.

You Are Not Alone

Many students struggle with depression or anxiety at some point during college. Reaching out for support is a strong and healthy step, not a sign of weakness.

Through the SUNY Oneonta partnership with Amira The Healing Space, currently enrolled students have access to free virtual counseling services to help navigate these challenges. 

Schedule here:

https://amirathehealingspace.as.me

If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling emotionally, or simply need someone to talk to, support is available.

Taking care of your mental health is an important part of your overall well-being—and you deserve that support.