Dealing with gloom, depression & suicidal thoughts

What is it? 

You brood a lot and notice that you suffer from all kinds of gloomy thoughts. This makes you feel down and you notice that the gloominess is increasing. Sometimes there is a clear reason for this, and sometimes not. In a conversation with the student psychologist, you explore what your gloominess looks like and what causes it.  

It is important to contact your general practioner in good time. For example, if there is a disrupted sleep rhythm, a gloomy mood throughout the day, clearly reduced interest & pleasure in activities, fatigue or loss of energy throughout the days, feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of death. The general practioner can refer you to further counselling and therapy. Fontys student psychologists are happy to think with you. We do not offer long-term therapy, although this is often desirable for these problems. 

What can you do yourself? 

See your general practioner in time. Talk about it. You can do this with friends, your sweetheart, your parents or your student coach. The important thing is that you feel safe about it. And talk to yourself above all. Without judgement. Unfortunately, difficult periods are part of life. Fortunately, they do not always have to lead to depression. And difficult thoughts do not immediately lead to suicidal thoughts. Think about what gives you positive energy. And realise at all times: you are not your thoughts. Think about when they don't bother me and what am I doing? 

Even if it is difficult, stick to a healthy rhythm. That includes fixed bedtimes and meals, and be careful with alcohol and drug consumption.  

Contact your general practioner in good time. If you want to chat anonymously about your suicidal thoughts, go to the site www.113-online.nl or by phone on 0800-0113.