Response to Alissa Steiner's "Depression in College Students"

In “Depression in College Students”, Alissa Steiner talks about the battle of depression that college students often find themselves facing. Her thesis is “if counseling services on college campuses were better able to publicize and reach out to students, perhaps more students could get the help they need before it is too late.” She provides an annecdote about a student she once knew; Nima Shaterianl was a popular student who commited suicide. She also backs up her thesis with facts and statistics about depression and suicide. The science behind depression is explained in a way that allows the reader to undrestand how it works, as well as realize that seriousness behind the disease.  She also names triggering factors that lead to depression, such include school, work, extracurricular activities, family, etc. Steiner is also able to provide another real account of suicide, Elizabeth Shin, making the reality of the situation hit home. The readers are then able to relate to these accounts, because they too are college students, who could easily watch others, and well as themselves, go through the same things. A solution is offered, where Steiner informs the readera bout associations like CAPS that can help, and advices the readers what they can do for their own lives.

This essay really hit home, because I have a friend who battled depression for a long long time before she could finally win. She used to cut herself in her forearm; you can still see the scars when she wears short-sleeve t-shirts. It’s not something she hides, because she is so proud of herself for overcoming her depression. Unfortunately, not everybody is as strong as she is. It really is heartbreaking.

I thought that the essay was written very well, especially the way she formatted it into sections. There is one for recognizing depression, triggering factors, consequences, alternate solutions, and advice for the reader. It’s almost like a handbook or a guide, and it really defines each moment of depression and suicide, proving that even the earliest symptoms of depression are extremely important. I wouldn’t change anything about this essay.