There are some risk factors that can easily trigger or aggravate depression among students.

Below you will find them grouped into various categories:

Feelings:

• Sad 
• Irritable 
• Hopeless 
• Helpless 
• Pessimistic 
• Guilty 
• Discouraged
• Confused 
• Anxious 

Thoughts:

• Thoughts of worthlessness
• Negative interpretations
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Memory problems
• Difficulty making decisions
• Difficulty concentrating
• Distorted thinking 

Behaviour:

• Brooding
• Restlessness
• Lack of motivation
• Social withdrawal
• Frequent tearfulness or inability to cry
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Slowed speech and body movements
• Placing unusual or excessive demands on others
• Suicidal behavior 

Body:

• Change in appetite
• Reduced sex drive
• Lack of energy
• Aches and pains
• Weight loss or gain
• Disturbed sleep
• More sensitivity to external stimuli