College senior feeling very alone

pickledginger
Tue, 07 Aug 2018 01:04:27 +0000

@erosenthall, I’m sorry that you’re having a rough time. Are you able to identify any characteristics or interests that drew you to the people you became close with? Have you been able to reflect on what you are looking for in friends?

Physical proximity is often a social catalyst when you are a freshman and in a shared living situation, but connecting can be more difficult as you get older if you’re not someone who quickly integrates with random people. However, this can provide an opportunity to really discern what makes you happy in a friendship and proactively try to seek that out.

It’s also hard not to compare yourself to society’s extroverted ideal, or how you think other people at your stage are feeling, but doing so can really drag you down. You might want to consider looking for a therapist. It might be very helpful, especially if you find a practitioner you trust and maybe even like. They would also be able to help you assess whether you are needing some practical tips or maybe nudging/support, or whether you might be experiencing depression.

Wishing you the best.