Well, if it’s a trend it’s repeating itself. The economy was a mess when I graduated in 1973 as well.
I was able to start working as a freelance in the ID department of an stereo manufacturer. The “job” lasted about six months and then I was invited to come on board. I stayed there another year and then moved on.
As a freelance I had no insurance. But being young, chances are that you’re reasonably healthy and don’t need catastrophic medical care … knock on wood. Getting your foot in the door is the objective.
I’m unclear on what the difference is between a “post-graduate internship” and a “freelance” is. If you are a graduate, you are a graduate; I associate internship with “student”. One is either an “employee” or a “contractor” aka. freelance(r).