Anxiety over All the Possible Futures
So I just finished up a Master's degree this year and you think I would be proud right...nope, I am anxious. With COVID is it even going to be worth much? Will it impress the right people? Did I learn something that I can use in the future? Did it miss skills that I will need in the future? Would future me spend the same money on it? Will future employers look at it and assume that I know skills that I don't actually have because I put it on my resume? Would a PhD be better for my future?
It is hard to explain because I am not depressed. I feel like I always have to say that. I am not sad. I am afraid...of everything. My mind just doesn't stop with all the possibilities though I will admit it usually gets stuck on the negative possibilities and the ones where I am hurt or in danger in some way. I have gotten better. I am better at grounding myself when I have panic attacks and such. I don't wake up all the time thinking I am in physical danger anymore. Which honestly is great, but I really haven't allowed myself to live in the normal world lately due to my fear of getting physically hurt, but how do all of you with anxiety deal with the day-to-day issues?
@akay06 it sounds more like anxiety than depression to me. Have you spoken to a doctor about how you've been feeling recently? We're all living in fear, and it's hardly surprising. Stay strong ?? We're here for you.
@Jem7Cups
Yes, I currently work with a team of healthcare professionals; however, that is not what this forum post is about at all.
@akay06 Stay strong!
@amandabutterfly8803
Thanks! I am trying!
I can calm you down. You are not the only former student with such problems. COVID really spoiled our plans. But I can say that every situation has two sides. I can cite my flat buddy as an example. When he realized that he was not sure that he could find a job immediately after graduating from university (English literature and history), he began to look for a part-time job for himself. He settled on poker games here. He has a good memory and analytical thinking, so this job suited him perfectly. Especially now, when the COVID has thrown thousands of workers into the street. Think about your skills and find a way out that is comfortable for you.
@DouglasJohnson
Thank you! I am trying to find a path that works, but the anxiety always comes.
@akay06
We all have anxiety about the future. Especially when we're finishing up with college. I have a Bachelors degree, and it's one of those "what are you going to do with that" degrees. College isn't just about what you wrote on a test or discussed in a classroom. It's really about meeting people from different paths in life, learning to communicate, learning to persevere, learning to interact, reach out, and grow.
I got my degree decades ago, and some of my college experiences are still helpful today in my job and life. At the time I really didn't think much of it, but it's funny to realize that I'm still coming back to certain situations, certain knowledge, to help me now.
Congrats on going the distance for the Masters degree. It's a great accomplishment!