“Why do we have post-college depression? We finish school and start cherishing that golden time only now. But why didn’t we appreciate it before? The problem is that people are always stuck in the past or future. They never enjoy the present moment.”~ Kevin McNamara
Everyone knows that studying can be a very boring, monotonous and difficult process. When we go to school every day the only thing we dream about is to finish it immediately. Nevertheless, most students admit they felt depressed after their graduation. But why does it happen?
Obviously, there are numerous reasons why people have depression after graduation. For example, some of them got used to their college lifestyle and cannot imagine their future without it, consequently, they do not know what to do next, and others start missing their school friends and feel lonely. They probably think it is going to be a challenge for them to make new good friends.
Some young people say that they are simply not ready for adulthood. Working hard, having a family, everything requires responsibility and seriousness. Besides, the school provides us with a special timetable and structure.
When we lose them, we may feel lazy and unproductive, which also leads to depression. Thus, there are as many reasons as there are people in the world. But the ways that can help you avoid post-college depression are the same.
Here are 5 Ways to Avoid Post-College Depression:
1. Keep yourself busy
It has been already mentioned that college gives us a certain timetable. When we go to school, we have a schedule but when we graduate, we feel totally free. It is a well-known fact that when people have nothing to do, they can easily become lazy and start analyzing their boring purposeless life.
No wonder they feel unhappy. So do not follow their example. Keep yourself busy. Recall the things you have always wanted to do but did not have time for.
College makes us study a lot, do homework and often does not let us have fun. Maybe you wanted to travel somewhere or skydive etc. There can be various variants depending on your tastes and hobbies.
They say the best way to avoid post-college depression is to start doing sport. Now you have no excuse not to go to the gym, you have plenty of time so work out. Exercises make people healthy, fit and happy. You can also join some social clubs in order to improve your skills in something like yoga or painting and meet new people who can become your best friends.
2. Find a good job
It also implies serious job-hunting. Now you are supposed to become much more responsible and earn your own living. By the way, this is one of the reasons why young people often feel depressed.
They are not ready for getting a full-time job and everyday routine that most adults have. However, the devil is not as black as he is painted. If you are patient enough, you will definitely find a good job that will present you with positive emotions, proper work environment, and a nice team.
The main thing is not taking the first job that came your way. Take your time with the momentous things in life. Think carefully and remember that you should do what you love and love what you do.
3. Stay in touch
After graduation people often stop communicating with their college friends. If you were really close, do not make this awful mistake. Even if you live in different cities or countries you can use Skype and overcome post-college depression together. This will help you avoid post-college depression.
4. Do not compare yourself to others
Sometimes staying in touch with your college friends may lead to depression as people got used to comparing themselves to others. So before meeting your old friends keep the following words in mind: everyone is unique and follows their own path.
Forget about jealousy when your friends are telling you about their new well-paid job. Be happy for them and show your support. If you really need to compare, then compare your present self with your past. You’ll see that you’ve come a long way. Work hard to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Do your best to become better in all the aspects of your life. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes, it will make you more experienced. Focus on yourself, help the others and it will lead you to success.
5. Put the past behind you
Why do we have post-college depression? We finish school and start cherishing that golden time only now. But why didn’t we appreciate it before? The problem is that people are always stuck in the past or future. They never enjoy the present moment.
Remember, while you are missing your college life and feeling upset, you are losing your precious time. Be thankful for everything that you have. Fill every second of your life with happy emotions. Make your life unforgettable.
Make your dreams come true. It is not as difficult as it may seem. Everything depends on you and your way of thinking. So start thinking positively, get involved in activities you enjoy or you have never done before, spend more time with people who you really love.
P.S. Always keep in your mind that post college depression can be really harmful to your health and life. If it gets much stronger, feel free to consult a specialist. You may need medication. It will help you to overcome this tough time.
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Kevin McNamara
Kevin is a content writer and blogger who enjoys sharing his thoughts with people through words. For more of his works visit www.thewritingkid.com, or connect with him on Twitter and Facebook
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