Asbury College

What if my child develops a more serious mental health concern, like depression?

Depressive Symptoms include frequent crying, irritability, persistent sad mood, skipping classes, dropping grades, turning work in late, withdrawing socially, changes in sleep patterns, lack of motivation/energy. While any of these symptoms alone are quite normal, several of them over a month or so may indicate the onset of depressive illness. This list is not exhaustive, but indicative of general patterns.

If you notice these symptoms, you can encourage your child to stop in the Center for Counseling as soon as possible to discuss the matter with one of the professional counselors.

In addition to the counselors, the college physician at Student Health Services is available to see students who may need medication administration and monitoring, in conjunction with ongoing counseling. There are several Christian psychiatrists in the area that would be available for longer term or more complex medication/hospitalization issues.

Faculty are also briefed on intervention and introductory counseling procedures, to make the student's particular situation more manageable until a health professional can assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

In the rare event that a student does develop a serious mental or emotional crisis, Emergency Services are available through the Counseling Center or the Student Health Service on a 24/7 basis by calling the Center at 859-858-3511, ext. 2323, or after hours, the Campus Switchboard at ext. 0.

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