We tend to use the term depression very casually when speaking to friends and acquaintances. The college years are times of transition and growth. It's a time when we try to find a niche and want to gain independence from our family. This makes us susceptible to depression. Depression refers to marked changes in our mood and ranges from mild feelings of sadness to intense feelings of hopelessness and even suicidal ideation.
Depression can happen gradually or it can be triggered by specific events.
It is natural to feel hurt and sad when we suffer a loss or experience failure, disappointment or rejection. But, sometimes what starts out as a normal reaction turns into clinical depression. Depression can persists for weeks, months, or years, and can affect every aspect of our daily lives. Depression often makes people tired and irritable. It also elicits feelings of pessimism, negativism, worthlessness and guilt.