Navigating Loneliness and Building a Supportive Community at University

While starting university can be exhilarating, it can also feel lonely sometimes.

Being in a new place, missing your family and friends back home, and tackling your studies – it’s normal to feel lonely even when you’re surrounded by people. There are lots of ways to make meaningful connections and find your community at university, whatever stage you are at.

You’re not alone in feeling alone

Loneliness hits most students at some point, so don’t feel bad or beat yourself up over it.  Acknowledging how you feel is the first step to taking action. Consider talking to someone you trust about what’s going on, like a friend or housemate.  If you‘d like to speak with someone outside of your usual circle, there are “Fancy a Cuppa?” events running twice a week, where you can chat with Wellbeing Champions or members of staff, and firstpoint, is open Monday to Friday, from 9am – 4.30pm. Reaching out and getting some of these thoughts off your chest can really help – remember that a problem shared is a problem halved!

Ways to Tackle Loneliness

• Take care of yourself! Eat nourishing foods, get enough sleep and make time for exercise. You’ll handle the emotional stuff better. See our blog about creating healthy habits.
  
• Make the most of the support offered by the University.  “Fancy a Cuppa?” is a great way to informally meet and chat with fellow students, as well as members of staff, and every other Tuesday they are joined by Pets As Therapy Dogs.  If your loneliness it taking a toll on your mental health, then consider booking a STAR appointment and speaking with an adviser from the Counselling Service.
  
• Join one of the Students’ Union clubs or societies.  You might find something you already know and love, or discover a whole new interest and make new friends with similar hobbies!
  
• Don’t be shy about going to social events on campus. Keep an eye out for workshops and drop-ins. It can be a great way to meet people.
  
• Chat with your flatmates or people you see on campus regularly. Suggest a group meal or outing, and get to know them a little better.
  
• Volunteer in the community. It’s an amazing way to meet people and do some good.

It’s absolutely normal to feel lonely when adjusting to university life, but there are practical things that you to try.  Reach out, take care of yourself, join groups and make the first move to introduce yourself to people.  Building relationships takes effort but is so rewarding. You’ll find your people and feel more connected in no time!

If you are struggling, there is always support from the University. Visit or email firstpoint for more help and guidance.