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How to handle loneliness in college
You’ve probably daydreamed about what life in college would be like long before even enrolling. Did you picture yourself in an energetic setting, surrounded by opportunities to meet new people and gain new experiences? It can be hard to find out that college can leave you feeling lonelier than ever, even though there are people all around you.
Over half of college students reported feeling “very lonely” over a one-year period, according to an American College Health Association survey. Loneliness can result in overwhelming anxiety, hopelessness, and depression. However, many students hide their suffering due to shame or embarrassment instead of seeking help. This Pacific Prime Latin America article discusses how to handle loneliness in college.
Why do many college students feel lonely in college?
Starting college can be an exciting time, but it’s also a big transition. Once the excitement starts to dwindle, you may begin to believe that you’re all alone. Let’s look at why it’s common for students to feel isolated during their time enrolled in higher education.
Everything is new
College life is full of new experiences, and with new experiences come new challenges. Not only do you have to become familiar with a different environment and routine, but you’re probably also questioning your future. Going through all of this without the support of your loved ones can be tough. Even if you’ve been wondering how to make new friends in college, it’s important to realize that they may also be dealing with similar issues and not be able to offer the support you need.
Social connections are less meaningful
From classrooms and the library to sports events and parties, it can seem like there are people everywhere you go in college. Or perhaps your social interactions mostly take place online (e.g. social media). Either way, you may feel like your social interactions are rather limited and don’t provide the depth that can help combat loneliness. Social media can even exacerbate your loneliness when you see your family and friends living their lives without you.
Since college can be quite competitive, you might also find that you’re always comparing yourself to your peers – making it even harder to reach out for support.
4 ways to deal with loneliness in college
Is loneliness getting the better of you? Remember that you’re not alone, and many others are going through the exact same thing. Here are some steps that can help you if you’re lonely in college.
1. Get involved
There are so many activities that you can try out in college. Do you want to be a part of a club or fraternity/sorority? Perhaps you’d like to join a study group or become a volunteer. Any group or activity that’s calling you offers an ideal opportunity to meet new people and connect in a more meaningful way. Plus, you already have something in common right from the start, which makes for a great icebreaker.
2. Limit your exposure to technology
As tempting as it may be to keep tabs on your loved ones back home, spending too much time on social media is bound to leave you feeling more lonely. When you do use it, remind yourself that people show their highlight reels on these platforms. In other words, most people only post their best moments (or even fabricate them), so you should never compare yourself to what you see online.
3. Get a mentor
What better way to immerse yourself in college life and experience more connection than by sparking a mentor relationship? It’s common for professors to offer office hours so students can seek additional help. Interacting with your professors outside of normal lectures can enhance your connection during class, as well as form a relationship that makes you feel more valued as your educational journey progresses.
4. Seek professional help
Those three words can be intimidating, but that’s just because of the stigma surrounding mental health. Truth be told, you don’t need to have a mental illness to talk to a professional. So instead of waiting until you have a mental breakdown from loneliness, get in touch with a qualified professional so you can talk about what you’re going through in confidence and without judgment. Check if your student health center has any recommendations or, better yet, if your health insurance plan covers counseling.
Further reading: How to buy health insurance for the first time as a student
Put your health first with Pacific Prime Latin America
Both your mental and physical health contribute to your overall wellbeing, so make sure you’re taking care of both. Find out what mental health benefits are included in your international student health insurance plan. Or if you’re currently uninsured, secure a policy that offers them.
Take the guesswork out of securing a health insurance plan that’s right for you by working with a reputable broker like ours. As a leading health insurance broker and employee benefits specialist, Pacific Prime Latin America knows what questions you need to ask and the factors you need to consider. Along with leveraging our relationships with top insurance providers, we also provide value-added services that you won’t typically find from an insurer.
Contact us for impartial insurance advice and a free plan comparison today.
Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content - no matter how complex the subject is.
Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.
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