How to Survive Post College Blues

We've heard enough about anxiety and depression that result from transitioning from your home to college, but what about the other way around? Getting used to life in college can be challenging because students are not adjusted to the “crazy” schedules and lack of family support present at college. However, once they have accepted the change and actually started enjoying it, they won't like going back to the life they came from either.

This is true for many students who experience what is called “post-graduate blues”. College to real world transition can be just as stressful where you are back to a life of order, sobriety, and individualism.

Here’s how we think you can beat the post-graduate blues and transition into the real world.
(1) Consider a Gap Year: Many students nowadays are choosing to take a year off after graduation just to enjoy the only time in their life they are actually “free”. Immediately going back to the boring 9 to 5 schedules, bosses, and tons of hard work can be overwhelming after a four-year long -- or even longer -- intensive program that requires no less hard work. Enjoy the year doing your favorite activity. It could be travelling, volunteering, teaching English, or other adventurous or useful experience.

(2) Develop a Hobby : Don’t be afraid to “do what you've always wanted to do”. Heck, it could be anything from hunting to fishing, painting or even gardening. Reacquaint yourself your passion that was probably the last thing on your mind during your busy college life. Sometimes, the hobby you choose can become a part-time profession. You might even realize that your proposed field of interest is a little “off”, and that you talents and skills lie elsewhere. It’s never too late to change your mind about the job you love!

According to the Washington Post, only 27% of college grads have a job that is related to their major. Additionally, only 62% or employees have a job that requires a degree!

(3) Surround Yourself with People :College campuses are filled with fun activities and friends. One of the most difficult parts of the post-college transition is not being around your friends anymore. Similar to family, friends become a source of support necessary to continue with your life and the mundane obligations it requires. For many, this can be quite frustrating, especially if they were used to doing everything with a roommate or friends. It is important to realize that this is part of life and that everyone has to go their own separate ways eventually.
A way to deal with this is by surrounding yourself with new people who are also willing to be “family” or your friend. Take the initiative to build new relationships with people you enjoy being around. Your blood relations, new co-workers, and any “member” of a club you recently joined are examples of potential candidates.

(4) Just Get Busy : As stated by William Blake, “A busy bee has no time for sorrow”. This couldn’t be truer! Depression can be result of over thinking. Don’t allow yourself time to “over think” by indulging in the next best busy job around.

The best way to stay“busy” after graduation is to find a job. Ask your University to polish your resume, attend as many job fairs as you can, and keep yourself updated with the University job offer page(s).

(5) Accept Change : Finally, it is important to accept things the way they are. Change is difficult no matter when or where it occurs during your lifetime. The best way to deal with it is to fully accept it -- and even embrace it when the time comes.