Loneliness and belonging
Everyone feels lonely sometimes
Loneliness is a normal human response, like feeling hungry when you need food. It's simply your mind's way of telling you that you may need more social connection.
According to NHS Every Mind Matters, young people aged 16-34 are one of the most at-risk groups for experiencing loneliness.
Feeling lonely can be caused by many different things, like moving home, starting a new job, or a relationship break up and is something that everyone experiences at some point, even when surrounded by others or scrolling through social media.
It's normal and nothing to feel embarrassed about. Sometimes, admitting we feel lonely can be tough, but remember, you're not alone in feeling this way.
Making meaningful connections
Building connections at uni can take time, and meaningful relationships don’t happen overnight, so be patient with yourself and others. It’s natural to feel nervous or out of place sometimes, but consistency and effort make a big difference. Many students are still figuring things out in their second and third years.
Read these top tips for building connections at university from fellow students, or watch these great conversations on making and maintaining meaningful connections from the Mental Health Foundation.
Ideas for connecting with people
Being social means different things to different people, so here are a few ideas you could try to connect with people on campus.
Show interest – meaningful connections can grow through genuine curiosity, so ask questions, listen actively and share your own experiences.
Be proactive – don’t wait for others to make the first move. Message a friend for coffee or to check out one of the events on campus together.
Join a society or sports club that you’re interested in. Meeting people with an interest you share will help the conversation flow.
Try our weekly social football club for staff and students of all nationalities and abilities to enjoy a friendly kickabout. They meet every Wednesday from 17:00-18:00 at the MUGA (field behind the bus stops). Check the events on campus page for updates.
Take a look at the SU What’s on page for free and affordable activities.
Help others – reach out to someone else who might be feeling lonely or volunteer. Find ideas at Volunteer Cornwall or contact the SU for their latest opportunities.
Study together – form a study group with course mates or grab a coffee after lectures.
Drop in at the Multifaith Chaplaincy or attend one of their events. Alongside a wonderful selection of teas, you’ll find a friendly and welcoming space for everyone.
Visit a Peer Support Group – these are for people with similar experiences to come together and support each other in a safe space.
Living in halls? - go along to one of the ResLife team’s weekly events.
Remember: Building connections takes time. Be patient with yourself and others - meaningful relationships don't happen overnight, and that's completely normal.
Ways to feel better if you’re feeling lonely
Loneliness is a normal part of life, and the feeling will pass; you may just need to be patient. Practising self-care can help you feel better.
Do something you enjoy – listen to your favourite podcast or music, watch a TV show you enjoy, spend some time gaming, be creative or try Mindfulness - this TED talk from the founder of Headspace explains more.
Move your body – exercise can boost your mood and reduce stress. Go for a walk, hire a Beryl bike, or go for a run; the Penryn Campus Park Run is at 09:00 on Saturdays. You can also look out for offers from the Sports Centre or try one of the free classes on the Spectrum Life app, which contains a digital gym with a timetable of workouts like Pilates, Yoga or HIIT.
Get some rest – a good sleep routine can boost your mood. Find out more here.
Join togetherall, it can help if you’re feeling lonely, stressed, worried, or just not yourself. It’s a 24/7 digital mental health support service with professionally trained Wall Guides who monitor the community to ensure the safety and anonymity of all members. Log in using your university email.
Tidy up – be mindful of your environment; declutter or clean if you need to.
Watch what you eat – try to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. You can find budget-friendly recipes here.
Call Spectrum Life's free 24/7 confidential helpline (0800 0318227), which offers in-the-moment support as many times as you need, and you can self-refer to talking therapies.
Read the togetherall blog on managing feelings of loneliness or visit the Every Mind Matters page on loneliness at university.
Reach out for support
Remember, support is available if you need it; you can talk to someone in the Wellbeing Team. Request a wellbeing appointment at the Student Helpdesk, email the team at wellbeing@fxplus.ac.uk, submit the confidential wellbeing form or call 01326 370 460.
For more information, including wellbeing resources, visit our wellbeing pages.
Useful Links
NHS Every Mind Matters – loneliness at university.
Marmalade Trust – articles on loneliness
Student Minds – overcoming loneliness at university
Young Minds – looking after yourself at uni
Mental Health Foundation – top tips on building connections at university
