What should you know about post grad depression?

After graduation, a change in routine, uncertain work, financial pressure, relocation or loss of social structure may expose or intensify depression. Someone may feel persistently low, empty, numb or unusually irritable, with less interest in activities that once mattered. Fatigue, daytime sleepiness, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, anxiety and withdrawal can occur together. These experiences are more than ordinary disappointment when they persist and interfere with study, work, relationships, self-care or decision-making.

Book an appointment with a primary-care clinician or mental-health professional and describe mood, sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, substance use and any thoughts of self-harm. Keep a basic daily routine: wake at a consistent time, eat regularly, get daylight and gentle movement, and stay connected with one trusted person. Break applications, household tasks or other responsibilities into small actions. Do not use alcohol or non-prescribed medicines to manage the feelings; they can disturb sleep and mood.

Seek prompt professional help when symptoms persist, worsen or make it hard to work, study, eat, sleep or stay safe. Get urgent help if you might harm yourself, feel unable to care for yourself, or experience severe agitation, confusion, or unusual energy with very little need for sleep. Tell a trusted person and contact local emergency services if immediate safety is at risk.

Ask how your symptoms fit depression, what treatment choices suit your goals, whether sleep or anxiety needs separate attention, and what to do if your safety worsens.