What it can feel like
Skipping class, sleeping through the day, pulling away from friends, losing motivation for a major you chose, or feeling numb at parties everyone says you should enjoy. It can hide behind being "busy" or "just tired."
Why it happens
New independence, academic pressure, being away from your support system, money stress, and uncertainty about the future are a lot to carry at once. Depression is a health condition, not a sign you cannot handle college.
What can help
Your campus counseling center offers free, confidential support and is used to exactly this. Professors and RAs can connect you to help too. Building small structure — sleep, meals, one club — protects your mental health as much as studying.