Creating connections and combatting loneliness
The start of a new semester can stir up a range of emotions, particularly feelings of stress, loneliness, or homesickness. And it’s okay to feel like this – even if you’re really enjoying being at university.
Whatever you’re feeling right now, know that we’re here to help you.
Talking about how you feel or asking for help may seem daunting at times but bottling up your emotions isn’t good for your mind and body. However big or small your problems may seem, you deserve to be listened to. Our Time to Talk? page has a list of free and confidential support that all students can reach out to from our UB Heard service to a chat with Wellbeing Officers.
Creating connections and combatting loneliness
Feeling lonely at university is a shared experience for many students. We asked some of our Student Content Shapers to share their tips and advice on how they deal with loneliness and making new friends.
- “If I’m ever feeling a bit lonely, I always try to spend time in communal areas of my house/flat. This might look like doing some uni work in the living room or on the kitchen table, for example. It might seem like a small thing, but it does make all the difference if you’ve been cooped up in your room for a while!” Dean, postgraduate student
- “At the start of Uni, I felt very lonely especially being away from home, and seeing others getting along so quickly. But I remembered everyone is in the same boat and that my type of people are out there! So, I pushed myself (little by little) to spend time with my flatmates and starting conversations with people I sat next to in lectures/seminars. Now I have met so many lovely people that I get along with really well.” Amelya, 1st year undergraduate
- “I’d consider myself quite the shy person and making friends doesn’t come easily to me, but I’d say joining a society is a great way to make friends. As you all share a common interest, it’s easier to form close bonds and create inside jokes. I’ve made some of my closest friends through the societies I’m in.” Sherese, 2nd year undergraduate
- "As an international student, I came to Birmingham alone, which made my experience feel very lonely and even frightening at times. I was constantly told that everyone is in the same boat, and even though it didn’t always feel that way, it’s true! When you feel a sense of sonder, realise everyone has their own challenges, remember that everyone is still adjusting too, and that mindset really helps. Stay true to yourself, find things you love, and start by simply saying hi! Put yourself out there and embrace the uncertainty of meeting new people, because there's always something in common with everyone you meet." Mahina, final year undergraduate
Free events for students
Throughout the year, the University and the Guild of Students host several free events for students, providing a perfect opportunity to meet new people and to have some fun. Bookmark these pages as well as keeping an eye on your student communications (including your emails and social media) for more details.