Dear Misfire,
I am a retired social worker and also married to a psychiatrist,we have worked together for years. It is none of the college's business if your daughter has depression unless it is Bi-Polar and might manifest itself in mistaken behavior for possible drug/alcohol abuse or if she has suicidal ideations.
These Major Mood disorders are quite different than the typical garden type "depression". One out of 11 people have "depression" whether it is treated properly or not, it is the statistic for this very normal illness. Proper evaluation and medication from a board certified psychiatrist is the appropriate method of treatment for your daughter.
No stigmas should be attached, but until the public is well educated on the subject, it should be kept to herself- that is why everyone is such a stickler on the Privacy in medicine act. If it is plain ole depression- it isn't the school's business. School might hopefully be the answer for her depression.But, usually, it is a chemical imbalance.
Keep a close eye on her and be honest whether or not the issue needs to be made known for your daughter's safety. Remember, the school wants it on record if she is a danger to herself or others. They fear lawsuits. Also, they want to help, medically and counseling wise if need be.It is a tough call. I commend you for asking for assistance.
If I can help further- please let me know.

MIsfire, the younger generation is so muchmore open and honest about depression which I believe is a good thing. It's a generational thing. Our parents' generation was in the closet with it. We came out of the closet and have broken some barries. Our children will do the rest...which is a good thing. As you say, keep repeating it to yourself. I think all of us need to do that.

Mattie, thanks for your professional opinion.

I think the decision should be made by the kids as to whether or not they think the school should know. Hopefully they are mature enough to know if they think the school should know.

About the health forms for college and whether we should include info about my daughter's history of depression and anxiety on the form or not --- I discussed it with my daughter and we decided to tell the college that she's been treated successfully for depression and social anxiety via anti-depressants and psychotherapy.

She will be 380 miles away from home and I want her to be happy and healthy. It's important that other adults are aware of her history so they can help her if she has any episodes. The only way to enlighten people and to lessen the stigma of mental illness is to "own it" and to talk about it. How I wish that anti-depressants existed when I was her age!

Misfire, I think you made the right decision. If she were a diabetic you would want them to know. Now they will realize she is comfortable with it and it isn't a big issue because she's actively caring for herself.

Plus, I think it's good for her to begin a support system at school.

[ May 01, 2006, 03:24 PM: Message edited by: Dotsie ]