For panelists discussing depression and other mental-health problems, the cure lies in talking to others.
Active Minds, a student group that seeks to raise awareness of mental-health issues, held a panel yesterday to underline the importance of seeking help for mental disorders.
College and Wharton junior and panelist Sameer Khetan -- a former Daily Pennsylvanian reporter -- who discussed his yearlong battle with depression said that his disorder discouraged him from following through with daily tasks.
He recalled that he was taking a finance test when he suddenly stopped in the middle and walked out.
"I just couldn't take it anymore," he said.
Khetan relayed lessons he learned on his road to recovery.
"The one thing I've learned is that talking to people is always a good thing," he said.
College sophomore Daniel Kiczek, a representative of the Reach-a-Peer Helpline, Penn's confidential peer-support service, echoed the importance of discussing issues with other people.
He described different types of phone calls that he deals with on a daily basis.
"We listen to people who just want to bounce ideas off to someone," Kiczek said.
Khetan likewise stressed the value of just talking and advised the audience about how to deal with depressed people.
"It's not necessary to offer this amazing insight or cure. Just be a good listener," he said.
Kate Richmond, a therapist at Penn's Counseling and Psychological Services who treats Penn students daily, suggested spending more time with depressed friends.
"Accompany friends going to seek help. Show them that they're not alone," she urged.
Richmond pointed out that, especially at college, where there are no parents to help detect symptoms of a disorder, students have to watch-out for each other.
Khetan agreed, saying that the onus is on every person to look out for his or her friends.
"Most things, like stability and happiness, are only surface-level," he added.
Richmond said that stress and relationships are the primary reasons people come to her.
"These are everyday issues we all deal with," she said.
Depression options - CAPS offers confidential and free professional services to undergraduate, graduate and professional students at Penn. - CAPS is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can be made in person or by phone at (215) 898 - 7021
