University students’ accounts of living with depression

Abstract

Depression is experienced by children and young people worldwide and can have serious long-term impacts, including a high risk of suicide. To date, there are few in-depth qualitative studies investigating young people’s experiences of living with depression and how this affects their education. The current study investigated university students’ lived experiences of depression. Three students, aged 19–21 participated in three sequential individual interviews, each with a different focus: before living with depression; the experience of living with depression; and reflections of the meaning of living with depression. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), identifying master themes. This paper reports on findings from two themes: ‘the weariness of the world was upon me’, and 'it all fell down to chance' which discuss students’ experiences of living with depression; and facilitators and barriers to accessing help. These are discussed in relation to transition to university, help-seeking and accessing support. Limitations of the study are considered and possible implications for practice outlined.