Are you feeling like you’re alone in college? Loneliness is becoming more common among college students, especially those dealing with mental health disorders like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). College is often seen as an exciting time full of social outings and the start of new friendships. However, the flashy version of the college experience typically portrayed in media does not always represent reality. College can be confusing and isolating as well. Going to college can involve moving away from the friends and family members who form your social support network, which can contribute to loneliness. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with feelings of loneliness. With the right approach, you can start to feel more connected and supported during your time at college.

5 strategies to help you cope with loneliness

• Make campus connections — You’re probably not alone in feeling lonely at your college. Loneliness has an especially large impact on young people. According to a poll from the American Psychiatric Association, 30% of Americans aged 18-34 report being lonely every day or several times a week. By connecting with other students on campus, you can feel less lonely while helping others feel more connected at the same time. Campus connections can come in many different forms. Some of the best ways to connect with peers include clubs and other on-campus organizations. These groups can help you find like-minded people who share similar interests and passions. A club can provide a sense of belonging and purpose, making you feel like a part of something bigger. Attending social events can be another good way to avoid isolation. Colleges typically have several different social events happening every week. If you’re not interested in big parties, that’s OK. Less intense events like game nights and study sessions can provide accessible opportunities for socializing. If you want to start with something more familiar, you can even build connections with classmates. Striking up a conversation after class could be the start of a lasting friendship.
• Practice self-care — College can be hard, especially if you feel like you’re going through it alone. When you’re feeling lonely, it’s important to care for yourself. Self-care practices like going for rejuvenating walks or treating yourself to your favorite snack after a challenging assignment can give you a big mood boost. Though you may feel like being hard on yourself for being alone, self-compassion is essential. Taking care of yourself can reduce the pressure to “fit in,” enabling you to take your social life at your own pace. Self-care can also make you feel more independent and confident in your own abilities.
• Getting a pet — A pet can be a great source of emotional support. If you’re feeling lonely in college, you may want to inquire about emotional support animal (ESA) policies on your campus. An ESA can stay with you throughout the day, making you feel less alone wherever you are. Having an ESA can also bring a sense of purpose, as your animal will rely on you for things like food and exercise.
• Stay connected to family and old friends — Have close friends and family at home? Staying connected to them can provide a valuable social link. If you’re feeling alone at college, try calling someone you know from before going to college. Catching up with friends and family can help reduce feelings of isolation. A familiar voice can also be a great source of comfort during hard times.
• Utilize counseling services — Think your loneliness may be connected to a mental health condition? Persistent feelings of loneliness are often reported by people with depression and other mood disorders. Anxiety can also lead to feelings of isolation. If you experience social anxiety, you may have trouble making connections without entering stressful social situations. Fortunately, treatment can help address any mental health symptoms you may be experiencing. Colleges often offer on-campus mental health services. If on-campus counseling isn’t sufficient, professional treatment can be a good next step.

Lightfully U can help you feel less lonely and more supported

Do you need support coping with loneliness and other negative thoughts and feelings? Lightfully U can help. We offer evidence-based, deeply compassionate virtual treatment for college students ages 18-25. Our comprehensive treatment plans are designed to treat the whole person rather than a few symptoms. This means integrating an array of treatments, from one-on-one therapy sessions to medication support. With our help, you can manage your symptoms and get the most out of your college experience.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward a less lonely, more fulfilled version of you.