Loneliness at university is very common, especially in the first year, after moving cities or countries, or when others seem to settle quickly. It helps to join societies or groups based on interests, say yes to small social invitations, create routines that bring you into contact with people, stay in touch with home, and seek support if loneliness affects mood or studies.
Why it happens
- Leaving family and old friends.
- Big, unfamiliar environments.
- Social media showing others having fun.
- Cultural or language differences for international students. See preparing for university as an international student.
- Shyness or social anxiety.
- Heavy workloads leaving little time to socialise.
Many students feel lonely but assume they are the only ones.
What helps
1. Join something
Societies, sports clubs, volunteering, faith groups, study groups or part-time jobs. Shared activities make friendships easier than small talk.
2. Repeated contact
Friendships grow through seeing the same people regularly. Choose activities that meet weekly.
3. Say yes to small invitations
Coffee after class, a study session, a walk. Small steps count.
4. Start conversations
Ask classmates about the course, assignments or their home city. Most people welcome it.
5. Stay in touch with home
Regular calls help, but balance them with building new connections.
6. Limit comparison online
See social media and mental health.
7. Look after basics
Sleep, meals and activity affect mood and energy for socialising.
When to seek support
If loneliness lasts, affects your mood, sleep or studies, or comes with hopelessness, talk to your university's support service or a counsellor. Our student mental health support is available online in Urdu and English.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to feel lonely in the first semester?
Yes, very common. It often improves as routines and friendships form.
I am shy. How can I make friends?
Structured activities like clubs and study groups make it easier, with shared tasks to talk about.
Can loneliness affect health?
Long-term loneliness can affect mental and physical health, which is why seeking connection and support matters.
