What can I do if I think my child is experiencing college depression?

Signs and symptoms of depression might be harder to notice if your child isn't living at home. College students also might have difficulty seeking help for depression out of embarrassment or fear of not fitting in. Many college students don't get treatment for depression.

If you think your child might be dealing with depression, talk to him or her about what's going on and listen. Encourage your child to share his or her feelings with you or someone else trusted. Ask your child to make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible.

Some colleges offer mental health services, though they may be limited. Colleges may not offer long-term help, but may be able to provide information on local doctors and therapists who can help.

Connected and time-crunched kids may feel more comfortable with telemedicine, text therapy or apps. There are a variety of apps and online interventions that may help treat your child's depression. It's always a good idea to talk with a doctor about these options first.

Depression might get worse if it isn't treated. Untreated depression can lead to other mental and physical health issues or problems in school and other areas of life.

Feelings of depression can get in the way of your child's academic success. They can also increase the likelihood of high-risk behaviors, such as binge drinking, other substance abuse, and having unsafe sex, and increase the risk of suicide.