If I’m completely honest, there have been quite a few times lately where I’m just about to fall asleep at night, and that sneaky little thought creeps into my mind: What if I fall into that group of people who are depressed after graduating? From talking to some friends, I’m not the only one imagining the worst. I know a few people who recently graduated and haven’t had the luck they were hoping for. Some have had to ask their parents for financial help, some have had to give up having a place of their own, and some have had to stay in jobs they aren’t remotely interested in. They’re discouraged, defeated, and depressed.
Photo © Caramdir
Of course, post-grad depression doesn’t just occur from lack of finding a job. Everything changes. Your daily routine, how you spend your time, the friends you see/don’t see, etc. It means starting all over again and it can be a pretty scary thing. Rest assured, you aren’t the only one to go through this, and you won’t be the last. Below are some tips for dealing with post-grad depression.
1. Talk About It
Talk to your friends and family, and even old professors. Venting your worries and struggles is a great form of therapy and healing. They also may have suggestions and advice as to where to go from here.
2. Keep Busy
Make sure you’re doing everything you can to job hunt, take care of yourself, and stay busy. That way, you won’t be able to blame yourself for not having success, as a lot of us tend to do when things aren’t going our way.
3. Consider Seeing A Doctor
Sometimes simply eating right and exercising aren’t enough. A doctor can tell you if you should consider taking anti-anxiety medication or vitamins to help you with your mental health.
4. Therapy
Your family and friends mean well, but a therapist can offer solutions and draw negative emotions out of you that your family otherwise couldn’t. A lot of therapists charge on a sliding scale, so call around for the best price.
5. Pinterest
Didn’t expect this one, did you? Creating a Pinterest board of all the things related to your dream job is a fun and creative way of staying optimistic and hopeful. Create one for outfits you’ll wear, what you’ll buy with your first paycheck, where you’ll be living in a year, etc. It may be just a dream right now, but let your boards be your motivation for making your dreams a reality.
It’s tough out there, but remember to stay optimistic and don’t give up!
Spring Semester Reminders
5 New Year’s Resolutions & How to Help Get Them Done!
Girlfriend's Guide to Baseball Part 3
