A KBSU Psychologist’s Perspective: Depression in Students – How to Recognize and Help Yourself

On International Depression Day, celebrated on March 24, Islam Shokuev, director of the Psychological Service at Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after Kh.M. Berbekov (KBSU), discusses why students are at risk and where to seek help.

Everyone has said the phrase, «I’m depressed,» at least once in their lives. This phrase often conceals fatigue during exams or a fight with friends. But, as Islam Shokuev, Director of the Psychological Service at KBSU, notes, true depression is not a temporary low mood or melancholy, but a serious mental disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status.

According to the World Health Organization, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting more than 280 million people. The student environment, full of challenges and stress, is a particularly risky area.

When sadness becomes a diagnosis

What happens to a person when ordinary sadness develops into something more serious? According to the expert, depression is characterized by a prolonged depressed mood, loss of interest in life (anhedonia), and a decreased ability to enjoy things that once brought joy. It affects thoughts, behavior, physical health, and overall well-being. Unlike temporary sadness, depression does not resolve on its own and can last for months, and in some cases, years, if treatment is not started promptly.

«Depression arises from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors,» explains Islam Shokuev. «Genetic predisposition, chronic stress, or traumatic events, such as the loss of a loved one, can be triggers. Among KBSU students, we often observe how academic pressure, lack of sleep, or social isolation exacerbate these symptoms.»

Recognizing a problem at an early stage can be difficult, especially if a person doesn’t realize their condition has deteriorated. The psychological service at KBSU regularly encounters various manifestations of this disorder.

One of the most common is depressed mood and apathy. A person feels constantly sad, hopeless, or «empty.» For example, a first-year student once came to see her and said she had stopped enjoying social gatherings with friends and had started skipping lectures, even though she had previously been one of the most active in her class. «This is a classic sign: when the colors fade and a person drops out of their normal routine,» comments Islam Shokuev. «Many attribute this to fatigue, but in fact, it could be the first warning sign.»

Another warning sign is a loss of interest in activities that once brought them pleasure. According to the psychologist, students often come to her complaining that hobbies, sports, or even simple socializing have ceased to bring them joy. «A young man came to me and admitted he’d quit playing basketball, even though it used to be his passion,» Shokuev explains. «He said, ‘I just no longer saw the point in going out on the court.’ This is an example of anhedonia—one of the key symptoms of depression.»

The disorder is often accompanied by sleep and eating disturbances: insomnia or, conversely, excessive sleepiness, overeating, or complete loss of appetite. «Research shows that these symptoms are associated with an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine,» the expert explains. «Many students complain of difficulty studying, forgetfulness, or a feeling of ‘brain fog.’ One 18-year-old man described how he couldn’t concentrate on lectures, mistakenly believing he had brain problems.»

Constant self-blame or thoughts that life has no meaning should be especially concerning. «We handle such requests with particular care,» emphasizes Islam Shokuev. «These are critical signals that require immediate intervention. You can’t wait or postpone a visit to a specialist.»

Why are students at risk?

Student life is full of challenges: heavy academic workloads, the need to adapt to a new environment, financial difficulties, and family pressure. Research shows that young people aged 18 to 25 are at risk for developing depression.

«At KBSU, we see first-year students facing adaptation difficulties, especially if they come from other regions,» comments the director of the university’s psychological services. «Moving, separation from family, and high expectations for their studies can trigger depression.»

Paradoxically, even social media, which is supposed to bring people together, doesn’t always help. Constantly comparing oneself to «successful» peers online increases anxiety. «One student shared that she felt like a ‘loser’ when comparing her achievements to her classmates’ posts on her news feed. She looked at the bright images of other people’s lives and saw no room for her own,» Islam says.

How to Reach Out

The first step toward recovery is recognizing that a problem exists. Islam Shokuev recommends using questionnaires, such as the Beck Depression Inventory, available online to assess your condition, but cautions that a final diagnosis should be made by a professional.

The second step is to seek professional help. A psychologist or psychiatrist is key in treating depression. At KBSU, students can contact the university’s psychological services, which are staffed by qualified specialists. Free consultations are available for residents of Russia at mental health clinics or by calling helplines (for example, 8-800-333-44-34, toll-free within Russia).

«Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy have proven effective in combating depression,» explains Islam Shokuev. «CBT helps change negative thinking patterns, while interpersonal therapy focuses on improving relationships with others.» At our service, we use these methods to help students cope with anxiety and regain their confidence.»

Talking to friends or family is often the first step to recovery. Islam Shokuev recalls how a KBSU student, brought by her friends, once approached them. They noticed she had stopped leaving her dorm room and literally led her by the hand to a consultation. «The support of her loved ones was the straw she was able to grasp and begin to break out of this state,» the psychologist shares. «Sometimes the love and attention of friends works better than any motivation.»

Don’t wait, but act

Why is it so important not to ignore depression? Without treatment, it can lead to serious consequences. For students, this manifests itself in declining academic performance, loss of motivation, or even dropping out of university.

«One day, a second-year student who had already submitted a letter of expulsion showed up at our service,» Shokuev says. «He felt he was no longer capable of studying, that it wasn’t his thing, and that nothing would work out. But after several sessions of psychotherapy, working with anxiety, and restoring his routine, he not only withdrew his application but also successfully completed the semester. He is now an accomplished young professional. Stories like these prove that depression is not a weakness or a death sentence; it is an illness that can and should be treated.»

On International Depression Day, the expert urges everyone—students, teachers, and parents—to be mindful of themselves and those around them.

«If you notice signs of depression in yourself or a loved one, don’t delay seeking help. At KBSU, we are always ready to support students, and free resources, such as helplines and psychotherapy centers, are available to all residents of Russia,» Islam Shokuev concludes. «Be mindful of yourself: don’t ignore changes in your mood, seek support, and take care of your body and mind. Regular walks, healthy sleep, and physical activity are not just words, but powerful factors that help maintain mental health. Remember: you are not alone, and recovery from depression is possible. Let’s take a step toward a healthy and happy life together.»