When you graduate and the job doesn't come

While many have already had the opportunity to work while studying, others are beginning their quest to put to use for the first time what they have learned throughout their professional careers.

But, despite feeling ready to work, the job search is more complex than they expected, causing an emotional lag .

New Graduate Syndrome or Post-College Depression is a common phenomenon that affects young people as they face the work force and adulthood, combining sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and affecting their self-esteem and quality of life due to unrealistic expectations about their first job.

The causes of this syndrome often include social and family pressure, lack of work experience, fear of failure , and constant comparison with more successful family members or colleagues.

Clinical psychologist Lorena Morales , a specialist in psychotherapy for young people and adults, points out that it is important for young people to adopt a positive attitude toward this "college syndrome," which, as its name suggests, can even lead to depression in extreme cases and without proper management.

"It's very important to set limits," the psychoanalyst mentions.

"It's a time when young people feel vulnerable and their professional identity is being constructed, and it can be their own family that exerts this emotional pressure. They must be clear about their path and surround themselves with people who contribute positively."

Psychologist Morales recommends starting work before graduation and not waiting until you finish to look for a job, since a lack of experience often affects the job application process.

"You can say that you learn something from any job," says Morales. "Taking advantage of that experience and discipline is important. It does help to work while looking for something more suited to what the recent graduate wants to pursue."

Psychologist Dypna Haydeé Mata , an emotional counselor at the Department of Prevention and Emotional Counseling at Tec de Monterrey, says it's very important for young people not to downplay their abilities when they experience negative thoughts about not being hired, since a period of unemployment is common.

"We have to remember that there's a lot of competition right now," Mata says.

"We are in difficult times.

Sometimes there are only a few vacancies and many graduates, so it's not a question of, 'It's me, I'm missing something.' You have to take care of that emotional aspect, consult a healthcare professional so you don't get discouraged." The important thing for kids, the specialist comments, is to remember: "You're still you."

"You have skills that only you can count on. Having studied for four or five years, overcome obstacles, subjects, exams, teamwork, challenges, exchanges, internships—all of that is experience, skill, and wisdom that will help you get a job."

The important thing, he emphasizes, is to remember one's essence and value. "At some point, all of that will be demonstrated."

Anxiety: Due to job uncertainty.

Frustration: Thinking that you are not meeting expectations.

Low self-esteem: By comparing yourself with others.

Depression: After prolonged unemployment.

Apathy: Due to the lack of real opportunities.