Wondering About Post-College Stress—What usually gives college grads the most anxiety?

I'm a bit of a forward thinker and I'm curious about what life might look like once I've graduated from college. What are some common sources of anxiety for college grads? Are there common struggles most face?

The transition from college to life after graduation can indeed bring about some stress and anxiety for many graduates, primarily due to the significant change in routines and expectations. Here are a few of the common sources of anxiety I can think of:

1. Finding a job: Arguably one of the most common sources of stress and anxiety for recent college graduates is the pressure to secure a job in their field of study. As pressure mounts, it can be stressful competing against many other qualified candidates for a limited number of open positions. Some may become anxious about their future if they are unable to find a job in their desired field.

2. Financial obligations: Many students have to start repaying student loans soon after graduating. On top of starting a career and becoming financially independent, this additional burden can cause significant stress.

3. Navigating the 'real' world: Transitioning from the structured environment of college to the autonomy and responsibilities of adulthood can be stressful. This may include things like managing multiple responsibilities, such as paying bills and taxes, or finding housing.

4. Uncertainty and fear of the unknown: Some students don't have a clear-cut plan upon graduation and may face anxiety about the uncertainty of their futures. This can be overwhelming, as they may not be sure about their career paths or where they'll be living.

5. Pressure to succeed: The competition doesn't end with graduation –there can be societal and familial pressures to find a high-paying job, progress in one's career, or achieve certain life milestones within a specific timeline. This can be a significant source of anxiety for some.

All these sources of anxiety are quite common but remember, it's crucial to reach out and share these feelings of stress and anxiety with someone who can provide support such as a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.