Depression in students is more common than parents realise — and often goes undiagnosed for years. The right early support changes the trajectory of life.

Key Signs

• Persistent low mood for 2+ weeks.
• Loss of interest in hobbies, friends.
• Sleep changes (much more or much less).
• Appetite changes, weight loss/gain.
• Self-critical talk: 'I'm useless', 'no point'.
• Falling marks across all subjects.
• Withdrawal from family meals, friends.

What to Do First

• Listen without judgement. Don't fix.
• Don't say: 'be strong', 'snap out of it'.
• Maintain daily routines — sleep, meals, gentle exercise.
• Limit social media if it worsens mood.
• Get professional help — counsellor or psychiatrist.

When It's an Emergency

Some signs need immediate help, not next-week appointments.

• Talk of self-harm or suicide.
• Giving away possessions.
• Saying goodbye to people.
• Sudden calm after deep depression — can be a warning sign.
• India's iCall helpline: 9152987821. Vandrevala Foundation: 1860-2662-345.

Depression in students is more common than parents realise — and often goes undiagnosed for years. The right early support changes the trajectory of life.

Key Signs

• Persistent low mood for 2+ weeks.
• Loss of interest in hobbies, friends.
• Sleep changes (much more or much less).
• Appetite changes, weight loss/gain.
• Self-critical talk: 'I'm useless', 'no point'.
• Falling marks across all subjects.
• Withdrawal from family meals, friends.

What to Do First

• Listen without judgement. Don't fix.
• Don't say: 'be strong', 'snap out of it'.
• Maintain daily routines — sleep, meals, gentle exercise.
• Limit social media if it worsens mood.
• Get professional help — counsellor or psychiatrist.

When It's an Emergency

Some signs need immediate help, not next-week appointments.

• Talk of self-harm or suicide.
• Giving away possessions.
• Saying goodbye to people.
• Sudden calm after deep depression — can be a warning sign.
• India's iCall helpline: 9152987821. Vandrevala Foundation: 1860-2662-345.