Avoiding Post-Graduation Depression

Finally! You made it through nursing school.

Now you are studying for the most important test of your entire life – NCLEX. Life as you know it has involved studying, completing assignments, and creating concept maps. After you pass NCLEX, you may find that you are left with a feeling of “Now what am I going to do?” You find that you have a lot of time on your hands, which you haven’t experienced in a long time. You might find that you experience some post-graduation depression.

Why might post-graduation depression occur? Some new graduates experience a loss of identity. For years, the new graduate has been a student! With the role, change may come financial difficulties, as the new graduate now has to repay student loans. How can a new graduate be identified as experiencing post-graduate depression? The common symptoms include avoiding close friends, spending more time alone, and sleeping more. Eating habits may also change. If you recognize these symptoms, there are some simple ways that you can get back on track and successfully transition into adulthood.

Your primary goal thus far has been to graduate with a nursing degree and pass NCLEX so that you can practice nursing. Now you need to set some new goals so that you have a new direction to follow. What kind of goals could you start with? Obtain your first nursing position, complete a telemetry course, and become certified in a nursing specialty.

Stay busy. As a student, your entire day was blocked off for one activity or another. Now you will find that you have a lot of time on your hands. A great way to overcome depression is to use your talents and volunteer in your community. Give back to society by helping others. Find a new hobby or rediscover an old favorite one.

Communicate with others when you find yourself depressed. You will find that your family and friends are a tremendous support system during this phase of your life. Spend time socializing and talking to friends and less time alone. This will help to elevate your mood.

Work out a lot. You’ll never have as much time as you do now, so you really have no excuse not to get into shape. Plan your meals and choose healthy foods. Don’t forget to take the time to meditate. Studies have shown that 15 minutes of relaxing meditation time can help to lift depression.

Laugh. A good sense of humor can't cure all ailments, but data are increasing about the positive things laughter can do. Not only does laughter lighten your mental load, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter activates your stress response, decreasing your heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in a good, relaxed feeling. Laughter improves your mood, lessening depression and anxiety. Give it a try now. Turn the corners of your mouth up and laugh, even if it feels a little forced. After you've had your laugh, take examine how you're feeling. Are your muscles less tense? Do you feel more relaxed? That's the magic of laughing.

Post-graduation depression is a real issue and impacts students from every major and profession. Learn how to recognize it in yourself, and take steps to help alleviate the symptoms. However, if you continue to experience symptoms, see your healthcare provider.

January 06

Debra S. McDonough, RN, MSN, EdD