POLOKWANE – As the country continues to battle high unemployment rates, many graduates say the struggle to find work is affecting not only their finances but also their mental health.

With Mental Health Awareness Month being observed, the emotional impact of unemployment on young graduates has again come into focus as thousands continue applying for jobs without success.

‘I expected to move forward’

For 21-year-old media studies graduate Amanda Mohlala, life after graduation has been far from what she expected.

“It’s been hard. After graduating, I expected to move forward, and I had moments where I doubted myself and felt stuck, especially having to rely on my family again,” she said.

Also read: Young graduates struggle to find work in Limpopo

Like many young people entering the job market, Mohlala said experience requirements for entry-level jobs are making it even harder for graduates to secure employment.

“I’ve seen jobs that require five years of experience, and it doesn’t make sense. I’m 21 and I’ve just graduated this year, so I cannot have five years’ experience as the job requirement,” she said.

Her frustrations come at a time when South Africa’s unemployment rate stands at 32.7%, with young people among the most affected.

Also read: What entry-level jobs could pay, if you can find one in Limpopo

She added that graduates continue competing for limited opportunities while some available jobs offer salaries that do not match the years spent studying.

“It makes me question the whole point. I ask myself, what’s the reason for studying hard for three years or more if I am still going to struggle to find a job?”

Psychologist: Unemployment affects mental health

Local psychologist Mary Malose said unemployment can negatively affect a person’s mental and emotional well-being, especially among young graduates entering adulthood with expectations of independence and career growth.

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“When young people struggle to find employment after years of studying, it can lead to stress, anxiety, low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness. The pressure becomes even worse when they compare themselves to peers or feel like they are becoming a burden to their families,” she said.

Malose encouraged unemployed graduates not to place too much pressure on themselves.

“It is important for young people to remember that their value does not decrease because they have not found a job yet,” she said.