THE SILENT STRUGGLE – LONELINESS

The world of today is more connected than ever, with social media platforms hosting communities that enable instant communication and connect people based on shared interests. Loneliness seems like an unexpected emotion to stumble into. Beneath the surface of our digital world lies a silent struggle of isolation and solitude.

Loneliness is a universal human feeling superseding age, gender and culture. In short, anyone can be affected by loneliness. The impact of loneliness on your mental and physical well-being often goes unnoticed.

THE ANATOMY OF LONELINESS

Loneliness isn’t solely a consequence of physical isolation; it is a complex emotional state that can persist even when surrounded by loved ones and friends. It is a large scale of feelings from an overwhelming sense of being alone to an isolation that erodes one’s sense of self. Understanding loneliness requires removing its layers, not only focusing on the external factors, but also the internal struggles that enhance its effects.

EXTERNAL FACTORS

Transition and change: University is a big change in many people’s lives, as you pursue higher education for a significant life transition. Unfamiliar environments and adjusting to academic pressure are just some parts of a storm that can make loneliness harder to deal with.

Change in friendships/relationships: Events such as a breakup or arguments with friends can seriously impact your mental health. A loss of a significant emotional connection and social support can be detrimental.

INTERNAL STRUGGLES

Self-perception: loneliness often intertwines with self-perception as individuals may struggle with the feeling of inadequacy, social anxiety or the fear of rejection. These issues can lead to a heightened sense of isolation.

Technology and disconnect: The very technology that ties us together, which is designed to link the world, can also contribute to the feeling of loneliness. The constant comparisons on social media, coupled with the lack of authentic, face-to-face connections, can leave individuals more isolated than ever before.

LONELINESS AND THE UNIVERSITY EXPERIENCE

As we students embark on our academic journey, the impact of loneliness becomes particularly pronounced. The academic pressures, coupled with the pursuit of personal and professional growth, can create an environment where feeling isolated can directly impact your time here at University.

At UGMSU, we have prepared some tips, advice and some activities that can aid in the reduction and mitigation of the feelings that loneliness can bring on.

SUPPORT SERVICES

 Student Minds  

Student Minds is the UK’s mental health charity that strives to empower students to build their own mental health toolkit to support themselves and their peers during university life.  

Students have also discussed their experiences dealing with Christmas on the Student Minds Blog:

• The Family Conundrum - Artemis
• Seasonal Affective Disorder - beginning to prepare for the winter - Emily
• Mental Health over Christmas - Tazmin
• Give the gift of self-care this Christmas - Grace

Student Space 

Supports students throughout the winter break and is accessible 24/7 throughout the holidays. They have a specific section to support students through the winter break:

• Making the most of your time at home
• If you’re going home for Christmas but don’t want to
• Staying at university over the Christmas break
• The role of sunlight in your wellbeing
• Preparing to go back to university

UNIVERSITY OF GREATER MANCHESTER LIFE LOUNGE

The Life Lounge brings together specialist Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, free for students to access, which includes a dedicated Wellbeing Team, Mental Health Advisors and a Counselling service that provides a range of therapeutic interventions. The Life Lounge also provides a quiet and relaxing space with resources to help students unwind.

Click here for the Life Lounge Webpage

They also have a Health and Wellbeing Online Resource page