Mental Health After Graduation

One thing you’ll notice about these blog posts is that there’s a bit of randomness when posting. While the topics fall under our mission, I let inspiration come to me and write what I feel. Today, I want to talk about mental health after graduation. Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of reflection, especially about the months leading up to graduation. I was so happy. It felt like, not to sound cheesy, but like the world was my oyster (I hate oysters, by the way, and I don’t understand that phrase, but let's use it to make my point). I imagined my success after those years of hard work and finally walking out of that varsity with my degree. And I did. Best day ever. I was so proud. But nothing could prepare me for what came next.

Many graduates find themselves facing a job market that feels more like a high-stakes game. It can take months, or even years, to land that first job, and often it’s not even in the field we studied. We might feel pressured to take any opportunity just to make ends meet, which can lead to feelings of regret and disillusionment. And yes some are lucky to get that job right as they’re about to graduate. I was one of them.

But there’s another factor. Interviews. Sometimes, they feel like a sales pitch, where the reality of the job is nothing like the dreamy description we were sold. When the curtain is pulled back, and we see what the work is really like, it can feel like we’ve made a huge mistake and coming back from that decision is never easy, feeling like you played yourself when you had options. It’s like finding an oyster, only to crack it open and. Surprise! No pearl, just a slimy disappointment (sorry, oyster lovers).

Let’s not sugarcoat it, work can be tough. A constant fight. Navigating office politics, dealing with challenging coworkers, or feeling bullied can be soul-crushing. Older colleagues taking advantage of the naive new graduate. It’s like being back in high school, but now you’re dodging passive-aggressive emails from older colleagues who seem to think their seniority is a superpower.

And when you’re stuck in a role that feels completely wrong for you, it’s easy to spiral into feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. You might look around and see friends seemingly thriving, landing amazing jobs, and traveling the world, while you’re left feeling underpaid and underappreciated. That comparison game can be brutal, leading to anxiety and loneliness, especially when you’re far from home and lacking a support system. Chasing opportunities can leave us feeling isolated, like we’re running a race without anyone cheering us on.

Finding Strength in Community

While these experiences can be daunting, they are also shared by many. It’s important to acknowledge the struggles of life after graduation and recognize that support is vital. Communities that foster open discussions about mental health and career challenges can provide a lifeline for those navigating this complex journey.

It’s so important to talk about these feelings, after all, mental health matters every single day, not just on awareness days. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s talking to friends, seeking support from a mentor, or connecting with a mental health professional, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Let’s create a space where we can share our struggles and triumphs, because together, we can redefine what success looks like after graduation. Life may not always align with the dreams we held, but it offers invaluable lessons and opportunities for growth. Embracing the reality of these challenges can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and a greater ability to navigate the path ahead.

Love,

From the trenches of adulthood