Graduation is supposed to be the most joyous moment of liberation and independence for any college student. Then, why does ‘post-graduation depression’ persist among newly-graduates? 

All-too shocking transition

Many perceive graduation as a new, fresh start for college graduates. One where they land their dream job, have a stable income and finally be a fully independent person. But, most often, that isn’t the case, and that is where the depression starts.

Commonly reported symptoms of post-graduation depression include an abnormally pessimistic outlook in life, difficulty getting up on the bed, sense of hopelessness, and, sometimes, substance abuse. Causes of this condition are still unknown, but reports of those who suffer from this condition have one thing in common: disempowerment.

In university, college students feel empowered. They have a sense of community within friends, organizations, and classmates. Success is guaranteed by studying, and if one feels troubled, they can find advice in professors and university counseling services.

But, in the adult world, graduates don’t find those things anymore.

According to history graduate Isobel Matthews, graduation is a daunting experience because it is like going back to square one. You leave your friends, make a new game plan for your life, and hope for the best. “It's tricky because you're used to independence but suddenly you become very dependent on your parents again.” 

An understudied phenomenon

Despite being prevalent among new graduates, it is an underreported and understudied issue. One of the difficulties of studying this condition, according to psychology researcher John Galvin of Cardiff University, is tracking the newly graduates. They are always at different places in search of jobs or opportunities. 

Another reason why this phenomenon is underreported is the shame that comes along with it. Newly graduates are afraid to talk about their experiences. Graduation is seen as a happy day for any college student, so feeling the blues on a special occasion feels like a sin.

How to cope

Post-graduation depression may seem like a difficult and exhausting condition to cope, but many graduates have proved that it can be defeated.

How to do it? Well, the first thing you should do is to aim for a purpose.

“Think about what you want to do, go for it and don't feel too pressured to dive straight into a job,” says John Galvin. Getting a short-term job or going back to school beats the depression from taking over you.

The second thing that you should do is seek help. It can be by talking to friends or family or consulting a psychiatrist or a licensed counselor. It is important to note that post-graduation depression is a mental illness, and therefore needs to be treated by a medical professional.

But most important of all, always remember that you are never alone.

If you are in a crisis or need someone to talk to, the DOH Hopeline can be reached through (02) 804-4673; 0917-5584673; and 2919 for Globe and TM subscribers.

References: 

http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/health/ct-post-graduation-depression-20170808-story.html

http://metro.co.uk/2017/07/17/why-is-no-one-talking-about-post-graduate-depression-6760769/

https://thedebrief.co.uk/news/real-life/one-talking-depression-amongst-graduates/

http://www.independent.co.uk/student/student-life/health/graduate-blues-why-we-need-to-talk-about-post-university-depression-8729522.html

Contributed by:
Allison Julianne Macasaet
Allison is a freelance writer on the side, a student of international relations on the other. Interests include fantasy books, international relations, and lifestyle..