Depression amongst students has becomes rampant - Dr Nahmoud

 Depression amongst students has becomes rampant - Dr Nahmoud

By: Olaniyan Mujeeb Opeyemi 

A Clinical Psychologist at Kwara State Polytechnic Clinic, Dr Aishat Nahmoud, said depression amongst students has become rampant these days which according to her is as a result of problems like; loneliness, having negative thoughts and taking alcoholic drinks. 

She added that smoking marijuana, and participating in risky sexual behaviors to cope with emotional pain than their nondepressed peers are also among the many problem causing depression. 

 

According to her, when a student is having mental health crisis, they sits alone, always fall asleep during lectures and inability to concentrate during class group discussion.

 

“Mental health crisis can lead to financial worries as students wonder how they will pay their fees and the financial cost and it only increases the pressure to succeed in a student’s chosen field; textbooks and other supplies are expensive as students may have to work in college to cover these costs”. By doing this, juggling work and school activities can increase stress levels and anxiety.” She explained.

 

She however advised parents, friends, faculty, and counselors to get involved if they suspect a student is suffering from depression, adding that students themselves are often reluctant to seek help due to social stigmas related to depression. 

Dr. Nahmoud furthered that mental health evaluation that encompasses a student’s developmental and family history, school performance, and any self-injurious behaviors should be performed to evaluate at-risk students before a treatment plan is made.

 

She said that treatments for school students with depression are usually a combination of antidepressant medications and talk therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy. 

She added that depressed students are also more likely to benefit from exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough rest than many other students.” Dr Nahmoud Aishat explained.