I don't like the Hobbes poster that my girlfriend got me.
What do you dislike about it?
It reminds me of the Higher Education bubble. I'm trying to avoid thinking about paying for my student debt.
It's understandable to want to avoid thinking about stressful things. Have you talked with her about it? Be honest and tell her that it is stressful and brings you bad thoughts, but that you appreciate her gifts-she can replace it with a different poster!
Nope, I will just go home sad.
Maybe you can cheer yourself up at home with something to distract yourself with. Try watching something funny on TV.