Why is college so lonely?
College is full of new opportunities that can be stimulating. That said, college life can also lead to isolation due to several factors, such as leaving the comfort of your childhood home, experiencing new or increased social anxiety, or being in a new environment for the first time.
Being away from home
Moving house is a big life transition. Entering unknown territory can be stressful and require an adjustment period. Being away from family and high school friends and trying to get used to a new environment can lead young students down a path of loneliness.
Leaving behind a romantic relationship
First love is usually experienced during the high school years. Going away to college can be difficult in a romantic relationship, whether it means breaking up or trying to navigate a new life, a new school, new demands, and a long-distance relationship. Missing a partner (who might also have been a best friend) can be the culprit of almost unbearable loneliness for some students as they try to navigate a new social life and circle of friends.
Challenges of making friends in a new environment
Even the most confident teen can find it difficult to make new bonds and connections at the start of college. Despite the abundance of social opportunities, the rigorous expectations that come with moving from high school courses to challenging college studies can take away from your time or energy to go out and make new friends.
Social pressure
Social pressure is inherent to university life. After spending decades watching movies and reading books that make it seem so easy to find new friends in college, the reality can be more painful. Some students are able to find their social circle quickly, but for those who don’t, the feelings of loneliness can be intense.
academic stress
Most students find that academic stress increases in college. Even extremely bright students may find that they suddenly face greater challenges than in high school. Stress can lead to anxiety and depression, which can hinder your energy or desire to go out and make friends.
Balance daily responsibilities
It can be challenging for any 18-year-old to figure out how to balance the demands of essential daily tasks. Without mom or dad to remind them to start doing laundry or packing food for a long day, they may struggle to settle into a routine that leaves them time to socialize and make friends. While these life lessons are necessary, they can be difficult and increase feelings of loneliness.
Lack of support system
It is not uncommon for students to struggle due to not having a support system in college. Feeling alone and unsupported can be difficult for some students, especially if they are also homesick. Not having the much-needed support they are used to can lead to days of loneliness.
new routine
College offers a newfound independence, but it comes with demanding routines that can be difficult for some students to get used to. Suddenly, students need to find time and learn to do things like manage their finances, cook or pick up meals, do laundry, get enough sleep, and keep up with their studies. Your new routine can be exhausting and make finding meaningful connections even more difficult.
Anxiety and depression
According to the latest research, rates of anxiety and depression among college-age students are higher than ever. TO study A study of nearly 100,000 American college students found that 37% have an anxiety disorder and 44% have symptoms of depression.
Loneliness often accompanies both of these mental health conditions. It can be overwhelming trying to make friends when you are struggling with the symptoms that depression or anxiety can cause.
