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Anxiety and loneliness

User Profile: Dylen2
Dylen2 September 17th, 2021

I recently moved to the dorms at my college and since then I’ve been feeling super lonely. I have pretty bad social anxiety so it’s been hard trying to meet people and make friends. I kinda feel stuck in a negative feedback loop, being lonely reinforces my anxiety which reinforces my loneliness.

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User Profile: anhedonichallenge
anhedonichallenge September 17th, 2021

Everybody needs to eat, meet people there. Remember lots of people are feeling exactly the same as you, you just need to find one, look out for people who look near tears.. say hello..

User Profile: Understanding61
Understanding61 September 22nd, 2021

Give yourself time. The semester has just begun. Everyone is just settling into the dorms and classes. As the weeks go on projects, assignments, and groups to join will start appearing. You will find by the end of the semester there will be things to do. Look for a volunteer option for now that won’t take up too much time from your studies. I had to push myself to always give a nod hello when passing by someone, offering gum when I pulled out a pack to the person next to me, just to step out of my comfort zone. You can do it! ;)

User Profile: determinedJackfruit4571
determinedJackfruit4571 September 26th, 2021

@Dylen2

I had a similar experience a few years back. I started college and was absolutely miserable. I felt lonely--especially in my dorm. While it didn't eliminate the loneliness, I decided to become involved in a few groups of people with similar interests. I also established a routine of going to the campus gym after dinner each day. I also frequented the library and other places around campus because just being around people made me feel a little bit better. After giving it all of my effort, I did transfer to another school, but those friendships and connections I made when I was there helped tremendously.

I'm shy and introverted and if you're anything like me, I recommend joining a campus group. It's an easy way to find people who share your interests and the first step is just showing up.

I hope this helps.