Have you been feeling apathetic, as if there is a hole in your chest that cannot be filled, regardless of your effort? That is the symptom of loneliness. It is, however, normal when you devote yourself to pursuing your academic achievement, but are far from home. Let’s discover the causes of loneliness in university and the solutions.
What Causes Loneliness in University?
Llera & Newman imply that lingering on problems causes the impairment of problem-solving abilities, and therefore resulting in ineffective solutions. So, cool your head off and make some tea. Let’s explore the possible causes of loneliness in university.
1. Being Away from Home
Stepping away from your comfort zone is daunting, especially when there is no one to turn to in foreign environments. You can face the situation, yet it is tiring to fight for a long time without anything or anyone soothing your nerves, which can lead you to loneliness.
2. Troubles Making Friends
Daino, an experienced clinical social worker in the United States of America, claims that the most extroverted person can struggle to build connections at the beginning of university life. It happens because of the responsibilities of students at the higher education level, despite the broader opportunities to make friends.
3. Struggling to Adjust to a New Environment
Apart from the unfamiliar academic system, you may face new challenges at once in the new environment, including language and lifestyle differences. You need time to adapt, but the process of being independent can be so stressful.
4. Academic Stress
Compared to the academic demands in lower education levels, you can be overwhelmed and burdened by the responsibilities you must fulfil at universities because everything is different.
5. Lack of Support System
When you are at home, surrounded by family and friends, you are supported. It is not too hard to get comfort food or talk to somebody you know when you feel down. But lonely days often happen at universities; it can even lead to severe homesickness.
How to Overcome Loneliness in University
Fithriyah remarks that loneliness can put your mind and body health at risk. But Nisa & Lestari state that it can be conquered. Below are some solutions you can use to overcome your loneliness in university.
1. Reach out and Talk to Someone
Being independent does not mean you stop relying on other people in any manner, as humans are social creatures. If you feel empty or alone, try to reach out to your family or close friends and share your troubles.
2. Establish a Routine
Creating a new routine may be tough, as yours might be different back at home. But try to establish a healthy routine so that you can walk through your university life more comfortably, like going for a walk after a couple of hours of studying and eating fibre instead of fried chicken.
3. Join a Student Organisation
You can meet people with the same interests as you and develop your social skills, too. Also, you can learn more about the culture of the country you attend and settle in more easily.
4. Stay in Touch with Family and Friends
We tend to isolate ourselves whenever time gets rough. Yet, maintaining regular contact with your precious people can be a way to prevent loneliness. Do not be ashamed to be vulnerable.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Vulnerability, like loneliness, is usually seen as weakness. However, the experience is perfectly common. Stop beating yourself up and appreciate every effort you are willing to make.
Ready to Enter Your University Life?
Loneliness in university is a normal thing. You cannot help but experience it, especially if you do not have routines and people to talk to. Learn the reasons behind your loneliness to overcome this issue.
Surround yourself with positive activities, like what you can get at Sampoerna University. This college works together with Arizona University to provide the best education. Not only can you earn an S1 and a Bachelor’s degree in four years, but the positive environment will help you feel at home.