We all feel lonely and isolated from time to time, and because this is such a personal feeling, everyone’s experiences of feeling isolated will be different. Feelings of loneliness and isolation may also be emphasised in the current climate as people are distancing themselves from others to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Whilst feelings of isolation itself isn’t a mental health problem, the two are strongly linked. Isolation has a significant impact on health, contributing to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and dementia. Furthermore, having a mental health problem can increase your chance of feeling lonely.
Our ‘Staying Well in Isolation’ resource has been created, with the help of our Student Advisory Panel, for students who may be feeling isolated, or are physically isolating because of the virus.
We know that at the best of times, transitioning into or through university is a challenging time, and isolation will be an even bigger challenge during the pandemic, but know that there are many ways you can make connections with people like you whilst studying and there is always support available if you need it.
A few things you could do if you are feeling isolated:
Call a friend or family member, send them a message or make plans to video chat. If you're worried that you might run out of things to talk about, make a plan with someone to watch a TV show, live streamed gig or theatre together. Or you could take part in a quiz, or read a book separately and then discuss it with each other when you speak. You could even try out some of the ideas on the ’20 Things for the New Normal’ document.
Join a club or society at university to meet like-minded people
Speak to a trained peer supporter or mentor at your University
If it’s safe to do so, meet with others for a coffee or a walk. Guidance on how to safely spend time with others indoors or outside is changing frequently so make sure you’re up to date on the latest guidance.
If you are struggling with your feelings of isolation get in touch with your universities support services, or access a support hotline or online supportive community such as Togetherall.