Have you ever felt lonely during your time on campus? It makes sense, and whether your friends admit it to you or not we have all been there. There are a few ways to combat this feeling, and most college campuses provide enough resources that won’t make your wallet suffer!
1. Join a club.
If you haven’t already, try to join clubs based on personal interests rather than what they will do for your resume. The club can be anything from a hobby to exploring something you have always wanted to try. During club meetings, talk to those around you about their likes and dislikes, as meeting people with similar interests is a great way to make new friends and learn about others’ experiences.
2. Go to a school event.
It may sound dreadful at first, but school events can be fun! There’s usually free food, music, and even older students that can give you tips on how to survive college life. You can find information about these events on the college website or from fliers around campus. People who go to school-sponsored events are typically show up for the same reasons you do: to socialize, relax, and meet new people.
3. Make your way to the on-campus gym.
The gym is great for when you don’t want to be alone. Running, lifting weights, or moving around in general may put you in a better mood. Moreover, the gym will be crowded with people who are releasing stress, so you’re not alone. If you’re there often enough, you may even find yourself bonding with people who go at the same time as you!
4. Leave your room.
I know it is very tempting to lay in bed all day and stare at a screen (or even read a book), but loneliness will eventually takeover. Call your mom, go for a walk, FaceTime your friends from home, gather friends and watch a movie, or even grab a bite to eat. Food will make both your stomach and your mind happier!
5. Meet with a counselor.
If you feel lonely even after trying to change different aspects of your daily routines, make an appointment with a counselor through the campus clinic. Mental health programs are usually provided for free, and it can’t hurt to talk to a professional regarding why you may be feeling the way you do. They might be able to suggest coping strategies or provide insight for addressing problematic areas of your daily schedule.
College can be overwhelming, stressful, and the piles of work may sometimes feel never-ending. It is normal to be lonely every now and then, and everyone feels this way at some point. By exploring something new, you might end up discovering a talent or hobby and even make some new friends. You won’t know unless you try!