How to Cope with Post-College Depression
College is widely regarded as some of the best years of your life. This first step into adulthood is a transformative experience. Making new friends, discovering new interests, and learning about your passions are all a part of the college experience.
Once you graduate, not only do you receive a diploma for all your hard work, but you will also have to change your lifestyle. It is a hard adjustment to enter “the real world.” Unless you plan on pursuing additional higher education, it is now time to leave being a student behind and enter adulthood. However, you are not alone if you are experiencing post-college depression.
Recognizing the signs
The end of college is an emotional time. It can be hard to reconcile with such a significant period of your life being over. For many graduates, being a student is the only thing they’ve ever known. From kindergarten to undergrad, going to school is a constant. On top of this, you and your friends might move to different cities around the country.
This gigantic new step into adulthood is bound to bring on some sadness and feelings of depression might arise. Some indications you may be dealing with post-college depression are:
Sudden lack of interest in your usual hobbies
Fluctuation in weight
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Decrease in motivation
It is important to remember that these emotions are completely normal. Transitioning from being a student means you will likely need to develop an entirely new routine. We have some tips to help you set yourself up for success and cope with your post-college slump.
Coping Mechanisms
Before graduation, think about where you want to be, both physically and mentally. If you are planning on moving to a new city, look for an apartment in a neighborhood you might enjoy or reach out to friends or acquaintances who live there.
Remember, every college grad is going through the same transition you are. It’s more than likely they could use new friends also!
Get sporty
Once you have figured out where you’ll be living, it’s time to introduce new, exciting things into your life. In many cities, there are different rec sports teams for young adults. Kickball, sand volleyball, or slow-pitch softball are all great options to get outside, meet new people, and even get in some exercise.
If you prefer less organized sports, check Facebook to find hiking or running groups in your area. You’ll be able to connect with others without the competitive aspect.
Maintain communication
Just because college is over does not mean you have to move on from your past friendships. Keeping in touch is so important to feel connected to an important period in your life. With cell phones and social media, it is easier than ever to call a friend to tell them you’ve been thinking about the good ole days.
Another, more intimate way of keeping in touch is by writing letters. Snail mail is much more personal than a text. It also makes for a fun keepsake to stick up on the refrigerator for you or your friends. Get creative with stickers and fun pens. It sounds simple, but your friends will love receiving mail from you.
Talking helps
Of course, there may come a point where you need to speak with a professional. If you feel like your depression or anxiety is not getting better, or you simply want someone to talk to about such a momentous life change, we are here to help.
We can help formulate a specific plan for you to tackle this period of your life so that you can handle adulthood with confidence. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can get started together.
