UK universities are showing what Aldermore Bank considers to be a “loneliness epidemic,” with 33% of students admitting to feeling lonely. Of that number, nearly two thirds of students have considered dropping out. However, the research suggests that the one thing that helps fight the loneliness is living with other students.
As the nights get darker and the weather turns colder, people tend to socialise less, especially if exams or assignments are around the corner. Here are more ways to boost your mental health and fight against those feelings of loneliness.
Learn to enjoy your own company
Try and get used to going to places by yourself, not only does it make you less reliant on making plans with others to leave the house but also it boosts self-confidence.
Solo cafe trips, studying in the library (might be more productive with less distractions), run to the supermarket by yourself, exercise classes (meet new people there) - the possibilities are endless, don't waste your time waiting for others to try something out.
Build small connections
Whilst it's good to get used to your own company, socialising with others is still essential.
Join societies or clubs, or even just participate in a one-off taster session to meet new people and experience something new. Pick something you actually enjoy or something you’ve never tried before but you’ve always wanted to — a hobby, sport, or academic interest. It’s easier to make friends through shared activities rather than random socialising.
By attending recurring events, you will help to build up a routine which will improve your mental health, but you may start to notice familiar faces of those who go to the same places at the same time too. Whether it’s going to the same study group, gym class, or café.
Say yes sometimes, even if it’s awkward. If someone invites you to sit with them at lunch or to go for a coffee after a lecture during the first week, it might feel awkward to begin but it could develop into a friendship.
Use your course as a social hub
Talk to classmates before/after lectures. Simple small talk (“How did you find that assignment?”) helps start casual friendships.
Forming study groups for revision or projects can make learning more collaborative and less isolating.
Shared living spaces
Instead of staying in your room all the time, spend time in shared areas like the kitchen or living room and chat whilst people cook or watch a TV series together.
Hosting small events like a movie night, games night or a takeaway with everyone can help break the ice if you haven’t all gotten to know each other properly. Be proactive if flatmates seem distant too, sometimes everyone’s just waiting for someone to make the first move.
Volunteer or work part-time
Volunteering or having a campus job gives you structured social time and a sense of purpose which is great for building a feel of belonging and routine. Not only does it widen up the horizons to help you meet new people you may not have otherwise bumped into (due to different courses etc.) but it can also be great for your CV by helping build your experience. Not to mention it’s a chance to build some extra cash.
Find a balance with your home connections
Calling family or old friends is great for comfort and grounding but don’t forget to make an effort to get to know people at uni too. If you rely solely on friendships at home, you may find yourself at a loss on the days where you're homesick and they all feel far away or when they’re suddenly all busy.
Take care of your mental health
Exercise and get outdoors each day if you can. Even a short walk between study sessions helps your mood, giving you a chance to take your mind off things and make you feel fresh again.
Sleep and eat decently, this can be harder said than done as a student but socialising feels like much more of a chore when you’re running on empty.
Talk to someone if your loneliness ever feels heavy or too much. Universities have counselling and peer-support services, and it’s totally normal to use them. Links to these services are usually found on the main university website or through your personal student portal.
Be patient and kind to yourself
Building real friendships takes time — often months, not weeks. Loneliness doesn’t mean you’re doing uni wrong; it’s a part of most people’s adjustment period.
