Life events: navigating change during and after university
From break-ups and failure to navigating new environments, homesickness and moving on after graduation, life can be an emotional rollercoaster!
University years are a time of transition, and it is okay if things don’t always feel easy.
In this post we will explore ways to navigate everyday challenges that many students are facing so that you can feel a little more supported and empowered throughout some of these big life changes!
Break-ups
Whether it’s your first relationship or one that felt like “the one”, break-ups can be incredibly tough. The emotional toll is real, including feeling sad, overwhelmed and physically drained. The good news? These feelings won’t last forever, and you will start feeling more like yourself again.
What can help me?
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Spending time with people who care about you.
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Avoid checking your ex’s social media.
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Exercise and movement.
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A balanced diet.
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Allowing yourself to feel emotions and express these emotions.
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Make an appointment with Counselling Services.
Remember, it’s okay to miss them while also wanting to move forward. Be gentle with yourself as you heal and rediscover your independence!
Experiencing failure
Failure happens. You failed a test, didn’t get the summer job, or feel like you are behind. These setbacks can be upsetting and hurt your confidence, but they can also be opportunities to grow! You might hear people telling you to be more resilient. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from these tough situations and it is a skill that we can build!
Skills and attitudes to increase resilience:
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Be flexible in how you think and adapt.
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Practice self-care that works for you.
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Try to process emotions instead of bottling them up.
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Surround yourself with people who care about you and support your journey.
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Take pride in your progress.
Remember to celebrate the wins and accept that challenges and setbacks are opportunities for learning and growth!
Feeling homesick? You’re not alone!
Missing home is very common among university students. You may miss your parents, pets, friends and the comfort of your home. This can lead to feelings of loneliness. Loneliness does not necessarily mean being alone, but could be a desire to feel connected. It may be a sign that you need to connect with others. Think about what makes you feel lonely and find ways to help with that feeling.
What can you do?
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Missing your family? Make time for video chats and calls.
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Missing your pets? Put a picture out and tell those around you about your pet.
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Get involved in clubs, rec sports, volunteering where you can meet others.
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Try to initiate conversations with other students and welcome communication.
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If you are feeling overwhelmed by loneliness contact Campus Wellness.
Feeling homesick is natural. Just remember that by taking small steps to build community and reaching out to your friends and family, you can find begin to feel connected in your new environment!
Starting out at university and post graduation
Whether you are beginning a new chapter here at UWaterloo or you are approaching graduation and beginning your next chapter, any new beginning can be nerve wracking and exciting all at once! There are lots of new things to learn academically, new things to try, and new people to meet.
Tips for building a sense of belonging wherever you are:
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Say yes to new opportunities – this is a good way to meet new people or find connections and places you feel you belong.
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Set achievable expectations – go easy on yourself and practice self-kindness.
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Find the common ground – look for similarities between yourself and people you meet, not differences. This can help you empathize with others and help you bond.
Wherever you may be on your journey, remember that with self-kindness and openness you can begin to find belonging!
You’ve got this!
Life is much more than classes and deadlines – it is about learning how to navigate each chapter. You will face many challenges along the way but just remember you are not alone, asking for help is a strength and small steps can lead to big changes!
Whatever you’re dealing with, whether it be healing from a break-up, failing an exam, feeling homesick or the unknown of what is next, you’re going through it and you will be okay! Campus Wellness has a team of counsellors here to support you and you can book appointments by calling 519-888-4096.
