In college, do you feel more exhausted than in high school, feeling out of place and lonely?

Dear Classmate, From your description, I can comprehend your emotional state and also appreciate the act of divulging your innermost thoughts in an environment that is both unfamiliar and populated by individuals with whom you are not closely acquainted. It is my sincere hope that my insights can provide some measure of assistance to you.

As indicated in the article, you report a profound sense of loneliness. An examination of this phenomenon is warranted. The term "sense of loneliness" is used to describe a specific psychological state. It is characterized by emotional distress and feelings of isolation or rejection from the external world.

What are the effects of loneliness on individuals?

Typically, transient or sporadic experiences of loneliness and depression do not have a significant psychological impact. However, prolonged or severe instances of these emotions can precipitate certain emotional disorders, impair mental health, and widen the gap and alienation between the individual and others and society. This widening gap and alienation, in turn, intensify the sense of loneliness, and if it persists over time, it can potentially lead to the development of psychological disorders such as depression.

Furthermore, it can be observed that loneliness has become a prevalent issue among contemporary individuals. As societal advancement continues at a rapid pace, it is likely that the prevalence of loneliness will continue to increase.

The reasons for this sense of loneliness are as follows:

One reason is the influence of the external environment. In many first-tier cities, it is evident that individuals experience a pronounced sense of loneliness. This is profoundly shaped by the surrounding environment. The urban living environment, the demanding work environment, and the sense of estrangement between people can all contribute to this pervasive sense of loneliness.

Your situation aligns precisely with the aforementioned description. Attending university in an unfamiliar locale, surrounded by unfamiliar people and campus, will inevitably engender a profound sense of loneliness.

Secondly, the experience of loneliness is also related to the individual. Relevant data indicates that introverted individuals tend to focus their interests on their own thoughts, opinions, emotions, and behaviors. They often express reluctance to engage in self-expression unless they are accustomed to doing so or possess the requisite courage. They frequently demonstrate a preference for maintaining emotional distance from others, a reluctance to engage in social interaction, and a tendency to conceal their true selves. However, they still possess a deep-seated desire for others to truly understand them. When this need is not met, they may experience a profound sense of melancholy and depression, leading to a pervasive feeling of loneliness.

Thirdly, individuals often exhibit a lack of self-confidence and the requisite social skills in interpersonal interactions, which can impede their ability to form close friendships and consequently engender a pervasive sense of loneliness.

These two rules are particularly applicable to your situation, given your aversion to social interaction and lack of relevant experience. This often results in a lack of shared topics of conversation, leading individuals to engage in isolated discussions in their native dialect with those they know.

In the face of the isolating sensation that can overwhelm one's emotional state, it is crucial to recognize that loneliness is a transient phenomenon. It is essential to learn to embrace this emotion in a balanced manner while simultaneously striving to enhance one's self-assurance and fundamental social competencies. This approach can facilitate the transition out of a cyclical pattern of loneliness, facilitate the discovery of positive sentiments in interpersonal interactions, and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty of life.

It is recommended that, upon encountering another individual, one should first offer a smile, thereby creating a positive impression. Subsequently, one should engage in benevolent actions, facilitating a deeper understanding of the other person. The value one invests in a relationship is reflected in the quality of the relationship itself. It is therefore essential to demonstrate care and consideration from the outset, as this will foster a stronger bond.

It is my hope that these thoughts will prove both inspiring and helpful to you.