Graduating college is a significant milestone in life and it can bring lots of exciting changes. However, it can also bring stress, fear and anxiety, which may lead to mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, 75 percent of mental health conditions develop before the age of 24. Parents and family members can recognize the possible signs of post-commencement stress disorder and take steps to get help.
For starters, most college graduates are leaving the comfortable structure of the academic setting and a familiar environment, which can be emotionally overwhelming. Building new connections and learning how to manage time can add to the stress. It is also important to recognize that because college students have been in an academic setting for nearly 20 years, they may be prepared for the transition to the “real world.”
One of the keys to helping with post-graduation stress is to have a plan and goals in place. Encouraging students to stay connected with others, focus on new interests, create their own structure, and make new connections is a great start. Also, career coaching and mental health counseling are two options to help recent grads with any stress-related feelings they may be dealing with.
It is also important to note that the organization mentioned in the article, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI, is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and dignity of people with mental health issues. Their mission is to provide support, education and advocacy to those who are affected by mental health conditions.
The person mentioned in this article, Brandi Gibson, is a licensed marital and family therapist and a licensed drug and alcohol counselor in Oklahoma City. She has experience in working in the higher education setting and is specifically passionate about post-graduation and mental health. She has written books and columns, and speaks at events to advocate for individuals affected by mental health conditions and to spread awareness about the importance of early intervention.
