Graduating from college can bring a wave of emotions to students – the happiness they have made so far, the anxiety of what the future may hold, and the sadness of leaving such a chapter behind. crucial part of their life to approach a new one.
While all of these feelings are common, many students also experience feelings of depression after graduation — a phenomenon known as post-graduation depression, according to Southern New Hampshire University. Some contributing factors to this problem include difficulty acclimating to life as a non-student, changes in students’ daily routines as they transition into adult life, and the complexity of relationships with off-campus peers through relation to school.
Common symptoms of depression
It is first important to understand exactly what the symptoms of depression are. Although mood disorders like depression can only be diagnosed by licensed professionals — like psychologists, psychiatrists, and other general practitioners — knowing what symptoms to look for can help determine whether they need to see a professional.
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According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some common symptoms of depression:
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Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
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Persistent fatigue and lack of energy
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Differences in appetite, greatly reduced or increased
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Differences in sleep patterns – sleeping too much or too little
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Anxiety or restlessness
Preparing for a smooth transition after school
Although some people are simply more prone to depression than others, and not all solutions or treatments work for everyone, there are steps people can take while they are still at home. university to help alleviate any feelings of shock and negative sanity after graduation.
There are many converging factors to consider when looking to graduation. According to Southern New Hampshire University, seniors should plan for housing, create a post-graduation support system, and start considering postgraduate options, such as jobs or graduate degrees, as soon as possible.
Although a certain amount of stress is unavoidable, it is important that students do not deal with it in a detrimental way. According to a study in the medical journal Addictive Behavior Reports, many young adults deal with feelings of depression with excessive alcohol consumption. While most emerging adults mature after heavy drinking, some graduate students may continue to drink heavily to manage the stress of transitioning into post-college life.
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Therefore, it is important for graduates to find a consistent and healthy outlet and coping mechanisms. For example, a student may choose to meditate regularly or practice breathing exercises. According to WebMD, other helpful forms of stress management include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising.
Finally, there are many resources available when and one decides they need help. Sites like Psychology Today and GoodTherapy can help locate therapists, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals in the area. If someone is going through a mental crisis and severe distress, there are several crisis helplines they can contact to speak to a trained crisis worker, including the national Suicide & Prevention Lifeline at 988.
IU Counseling and Psychology Services also offers several mental health services to students, including individual counseling and psychiatric care. Students enrolled in more than three credit hours receive three free CAPS visits per semester, after which the cost of each individual session is $25.
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