The term ‘post-graduation depression’ is widely used to characterise new graduates’ feelings of intense grief and reduced functioning after leaving behind the world they built in college.
Upon graduation, individuals are left with the burden of determining their next move, either employment or furthering their studies.
Yes, getting a job right out of university can be difficult, especially if you are not sure what you want to do and don’t have any work experience.
A lack of a job or where to go can be the first cause of post-graduate depression.
It’s partly the reason why a big number of fresh graduates work in jobs that do not require a degree.
According to therapists, post-graduate depression, also known as post-grad anxiety, is understudied and underreported.
Equally, thousands, if not millions, of graduates experience it but may not see it as a health issue.
This mental burden can come as a result of your big plans after college life and reality not matching.
Others develop it due to excess pressure to get a job and earn a living after realizing that they are now adults and need to fend for themselves.
The truth is fresh graduates frequently struggle to motivate themselves to find work. They are usually lonely as a result of a lack of professional and social connections.
While I am still in campus, I decided to research on post-graduation depression because I was concerned about my friends suffering out there.
Like I discovered, there are techniques students can employ to avoid this trauma upon graduation.
The key is planning ahead; way ahead before the final lap of your campus stay— fourth, fifth or even sixth year, depending on your course.
Upon graduation, take a deep breath and think about everything you’ve just accomplished.
It is no feat getting that degree, diploma or a master’s. Just take some time and bask in the glory of your achievement.
Don’t forget to focus on the present as you think of the many miles ahead.
Enjoy the things you can do upon leaving college and focus on them. While they may not bring you loads of cash, they help you avoid pressure.
Talking of things to enjoy, consider starting a new hobby outside of your comfort zone. This may be a chance to grow and make new networks outside campus.
As you do that, invest in something you’re passionate about. You never know, this may be your big break and instead of looking for a job, you may just create one.
Now, as you make those baby steps of self-empowerment, please stop comparing yourself to others and focus on your journey. Trust in that journey you have started and things will work out.
Lastly, don’t sweat the big stuff. Rome was not built in a day and you should not expect to drive a Range Rover within a year or five.
While we are encouraged to be ambitious, let’s not be too greedy. BY DAILY NATION