We all feel lonely from time to time, but you may find that as you get further into your PhD your feelings of loneliness increase.
Whilst difficult, it’s normal. It’s you that has to carry around the weight and anxiety that accompany your PhD, and it’s you who has to constantly find a way over what seem like insurmountable hurdles, problems and sticking points. Coupled with that, you often have to spend long hours working alone.
As loneliness starts to creep in, we can instinctively expect other people to reach out to us, message us, invite us to things and be there for us. When they don’t, we feel even more lonely.
But instead of waiting, be proactive. Be a friend to others. Initiate the messages, send the invites and organise the events. Be there for those around you who may be dealing with struggles of their own.
Not only will you feel more connected, but you’ll be a good friend to others.
if you want more advice PhD loneliness, you can read a new guide I’ve written for The PhD Knowledge Base. You can check it out by clicking here.
Good luck and have a great weekend!
