Home Alone

Self-isolation is hard for anyone, but it can be especially difficult if you’re already feeling lonely and disconnected. We understand that being in isolation can intensify feelings of loneliness. It can also lead us to feel more cut off from people, sometimes more than the actual reality. It can be helpful to identify the people in your life with whom you can reach out and reconnect.

It can be a useful first step to separate being alone and feeling lonely. If you recognise you’re in the process of adjusting to more alone time, you might take a moment to reflect on how you want to use this time. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be productive though! It’s ok if you want to take the time to just enjoy the slower pace of life.

As human beings we’re social creatures and we benefit on some levels from being with one another. As we practice our physical distancing, it is an uncomfortable but also normal experience to feel lonelier and more removed from your friends, university and broader community. You are not alone in feeling lonely.

Hopefully for most of us, we live in a home and with people with whom we feel comfortable and safe. For some of us though, being at home with family members, partners, or housemates, can place us at greater risk of physical, emotional or psychological harm. A time such as now, where we are in a period of acute stress and prolonged uncertainty, can increase the risk of harm. Limited options to leave the home and an intensification of feelings such as irritability, anxiety and frustration can leave some people in a vulnerable position. Services working in this support space are well aware of the difficulties and continue to provide services. If your concern relates to a university staff member or peer, you can contact Safer Campus Community. Please refer to the 'Need more info' section for community service contact details.

To ease the effects of physical distancing and isolation, think of the family members, friends, and peers that make up your social support network. You might even take this opportunity to reach out to people who you haven’t been in touch with lately. They are likely seeking some more social connection too! 

• Use one of the many virtual platforms available to organise regular conversations. Schedule online dinner parties or games nights!
• Continue to share elements of your life to your social network by exchanging pictures, videos and texts 
• Consider fostering or adopting a pet. Our shelters are filled with animals who are looking for new and loving homes. You’re helping out an animal in need while also receiving unconditional love and companionship. Just keep in mind this is a lifelong commitment!
• If you need support to improve or manage your mental health, link in with a health professional. Making an appointment with your GP can be a good place to start

For more information about managing different kinds of relationships, see our Relationships section.

When we’re having a difficult time, it can feel like things won’t get better. It can be helpful to remind yourself that the isolated state we are currently in, while challenging, is temporary. There are a range of strategies you can try to help ease your feelings of loneliness: 

• Talk to someone in your social support network
• Practice some self-care in whatever form this looks like for you. Some ideas include, gentle stretching, going for a walk, baking, watching your favourite TV show
• If it helps, try writing down your thoughts and feelings. Some people find this useful to help them to process their experience, while also helping to clear their mind

Despite the current level of physical distancing, maintain contact with people in your personal and professional support network in whatever way you can. Continue to take care of yourself both physically and mentally (e.g. regular meals and sleep, follow a routine, do things that help you to feel calm). If needed, contact a professional support service. There are a number of services that are available 24 hours a day.

• If you are in immediate danger, call 000
• Contact 1800RESPECT who offer phone (1800 737 732) and web chat services for anyone experiencing sexual assault, family or domestic violence
• Save the numbers of trusted friends and support services in your phone
• Download Daisy - this is a free app that has information about support services in your local area
• Males who wish to access a specific male service can contact a counsellor at Mensline (1300 789 978)