Struggling with the thought of Easter break and summer break.

I grew up in care, spent most of my school days dreading the breaks in between terms as I had no home to go to and just hear a bunch of shouting and fighting from fellow care kids.

I made myself introverted and isolated as I didn't want anyone to know I was in care. I left school with zero friends.

Easter break is now here. Going to university gave me the opportunity I needed to grow as a person and step outside my comfort zone.

I've become extroverted and made a bunch of friends; we consider each other family now.

What I'm finding difficult is all my friends have gone home for the Easter break, some aren't returning at all as we most of us have one week left after Easter break. I struggle with loneliness, I feel lonely when I'm not around them and it makes me feel needy and isolated. At this point I usually shut down, isolate myself, don't text anyone and keep myself busy by focusing on assignments or completing previous modules over again, or preparing for the next year.

I had to delete social media accounts as many friends were posting pictures of their family or family holidays. I get why they do this but it was upsetting to see as I have no one to go home to.

I just feel isolated and it has been a struggle to cope. Its the last summer break for me as I'm in year 2. Im struggling with isolation and loneliness. It doesn't help the fact I've just been put on medication.

Reply 1

Stormgrad

Original post by Anonymous

I grew up in care, spent most of my school days dreading the breaks in between terms as I had no home to go to and just hear a bunch of shouting and fighting from fellow care kids.
I made myself introverted and isolated as I didn't want anyone to know I was in care. I left school with zero friends.
Easter break is now here. Going to university gave me the opportunity I needed to grow as a person and step outside my comfort zone.
I've become extroverted and made a bunch of friends; we consider each other family now.
What I'm finding difficult is all my friends have gone home for the Easter break, some aren't returning at all as we most of us have one week left after Easter break. I struggle with loneliness, I feel lonely when I'm not around them and it makes me feel needy and isolated. At this point I usually shut down, isolate myself, don't text anyone and keep myself busy by focusing on assignments or completing previous modules over again, or preparing for the next year.
I had to delete social media accounts as many friends were posting pictures of their family or family holidays. I get why they do this but it was upsetting to see as I have no one to go home to.
I just feel isolated and it has been a struggle to cope. Its the last summer break for me as I'm in year 2. Im struggling with isolation and loneliness. It doesn't help the fact I've just been put on medication.

Have you been working? A part time job will both occupy time and give you an opportunity to make friends who are local to you as they are tied to the area due to this commitment?

Reply 2

University of Strathclyde Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I grew up in care, spent most of my school days dreading the breaks in between terms as I had no home to go to and just hear a bunch of shouting and fighting from fellow care kids.
I made myself introverted and isolated as I didn't want anyone to know I was in care. I left school with zero friends.
Easter break is now here. Going to university gave me the opportunity I needed to grow as a person and step outside my comfort zone.
I've become extroverted and made a bunch of friends; we consider each other family now.
What I'm finding difficult is all my friends have gone home for the Easter break, some aren't returning at all as we most of us have one week left after Easter break. I struggle with loneliness, I feel lonely when I'm not around them and it makes me feel needy and isolated. At this point I usually shut down, isolate myself, don't text anyone and keep myself busy by focusing on assignments or completing previous modules over again, or preparing for the next year.
I had to delete social media accounts as many friends were posting pictures of their family or family holidays. I get why they do this but it was upsetting to see as I have no one to go home to.
I just feel isolated and it has been a struggle to cope. Its the last summer break for me as I'm in year 2. Im struggling with isolation and loneliness. It doesn't help the fact I've just been put on medication.

Hey,
I’m really sorry to hear that you’ve been struggling with loneliness, it's tough especially over the break. You’re not alone in this.

It’s great that you’re opening up here on the forum. If you feel comfortable, maybe try sharing how you're feeling with your friends. You don’t have to go into detail, but just letting them know might help them provide more support during this time. (: - I understand they may not be able to be physically there but just a wee catchup over the phone can sometimes make a huge difference and just let you know there are people there for you!

Also, universities often have support services available, especially for students feeling isolated. It could be worth looking into what your university offers, whether it’s counseling or even just support groups that can help you feel less alone.

You're doing an amazing job, and I believe things will get better! If you ever need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to reach out. (:

Emily
Official University of Strathclyde Rep

Reply 3

University of Salford Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I grew up in care, spent most of my school days dreading the breaks in between terms as I had no home to go to and just hear a bunch of shouting and fighting from fellow care kids.
I made myself introverted and isolated as I didn't want anyone to know I was in care. I left school with zero friends.
Easter break is now here. Going to university gave me the opportunity I needed to grow as a person and step outside my comfort zone.
I've become extroverted and made a bunch of friends; we consider each other family now.
What I'm finding difficult is all my friends have gone home for the Easter break, some aren't returning at all as we most of us have one week left after Easter break. I struggle with loneliness, I feel lonely when I'm not around them and it makes me feel needy and isolated. At this point I usually shut down, isolate myself, don't text anyone and keep myself busy by focusing on assignments or completing previous modules over again, or preparing for the next year.
I had to delete social media accounts as many friends were posting pictures of their family or family holidays. I get why they do this but it was upsetting to see as I have no one to go home to.
I just feel isolated and it has been a struggle to cope. Its the last summer break for me as I'm in year 2. Im struggling with isolation and loneliness. It doesn't help the fact I've just been put on medication.

Hey,

Thank you so much for sharing this, it takes a lot of courage to be that open 💙

It honestly sounds like you’ve come such a long way already. From growing up in care and facing all of that pain and instability, to building real connections at university and becoming more confident and extroverted. That’s no small feat, and you should be incredibly proud of how far you’ve come.

The fact that you're aware of how isolation affects you, and that you've developed strategies like focusing on assignments or preparing ahead, is actually a strength. You’re not just sitting in the feeling; you’re doing your best to keep moving, even when it’s hard. That said, you deserve to feel connected and supported, not just distracted.

Have you had a chance to reach out to your university’s wellbeing team or support services At Salford (and many other unis), there’s often dedicated support for students who are estranged, care-experienced, or spending holidays alone. Some even run events or connect students who are in a similar position over the break. It might also be worth checking if your uni has peer mentoring schemes, or spaces where you can stay socially connected during quiet periods.

And you know what? It's also okay to reach out to your friends, even during the break. They will want to hear from you, even if you’re just saying, “Hey, I miss you.” You’re not a burden; you’re someone they care about.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the isolation or struggling with the medication adjustment, please do speak to a GP or a mental health advisor at uni. You don’t have to carry all of this alone.

You’ve already grown so much, and that strength is still in you 💛
Arslan – University of Salford Student Representative

Reply 4

hallamstudents

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

I grew up in care, spent most of my school days dreading the breaks in between terms as I had no home to go to and just hear a bunch of shouting and fighting from fellow care kids.
I made myself introverted and isolated as I didn't want anyone to know I was in care. I left school with zero friends.
Easter break is now here. Going to university gave me the opportunity I needed to grow as a person and step outside my comfort zone.
I've become extroverted and made a bunch of friends; we consider each other family now.
What I'm finding difficult is all my friends have gone home for the Easter break, some aren't returning at all as we most of us have one week left after Easter break. I struggle with loneliness, I feel lonely when I'm not around them and it makes me feel needy and isolated. At this point I usually shut down, isolate myself, don't text anyone and keep myself busy by focusing on assignments or completing previous modules over again, or preparing for the next year.
I had to delete social media accounts as many friends were posting pictures of their family or family holidays. I get why they do this but it was upsetting to see as I have no one to go home to.
I just feel isolated and it has been a struggle to cope. Its the last summer break for me as I'm in year 2. Im struggling with isolation and loneliness. It doesn't help the fact I've just been put on medication.

Hi there,

This sounds tough and I am so sorry that you are going through this. It can be hard staying at Uni when others are at home so I understand that this is hard for you.

Firstly, I would say make sure you read out to your Uni wellbeing team as they will be able to support you if you are struggling at all. They are there to help anyone who needs it so make sure you do reach out to them if you need them.

You could also talk to your personal tutor/academic advisor if you have one as they are there to help you too. You should be able to make an appointment with them and they can help if you are struggling.

As others have said, keeping yourself busy is probably key. If you don't already, a part time job is a good way of keeping yourself busy and getting some money at the same time. Have a look and see if there are any near you you could apply to.

Texting your friends is a good idea too - you aren't annoying but it is nice to have people to chat to so keep in touch with them over the holidays and you could always FaceTime them too.

I hope some of this helps,

Lucy -SHU student ambassador.