Looking After Yourself During the Winter Months
Are you staying on campus over Christmas? As winter approaches, many students – especially those staying on or around campus over the break – may face a season of cold, dark, empty hallways, and long nights. For some, that brings reflection, rest and peace. But for many others, it can increase feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Loneliness remains a widespread issue across the UK, as recent reports suggest around a quarter of adults feeling lonely “often, always or some of the time.” Students are among the groups most affected. It’s important to remember that: you are not alone, and there are plenty of ways to stay connected and supported through the winter. This is how you can stay busy and keep loneliness at bay during the winter break.
Understanding Loneliness
Loneliness doesn’t look the same for everyone. Here are some common types:
1. Emotional Loneliness
Missing a close relationship or deep connection: Such as family, a partner, a close friend, or even a pet.
2. Social Loneliness
Feeling like you aren’t part of a group or community. This can happen if your flatmates go home, if you're not close with your cohort, or if you struggle to meet new people.
3. Transient Loneliness
Short bursts of loneliness triggered by moments like holidays, exam stress, or adjusting to new living arrangements.
4. Situational Loneliness
Loneliness caused by specific circumstances such as illness, financial stress, moving cities, or staying on campus during holiday closures.
5. Chronic Loneliness
Persistent loneliness lasting weeks or months, often linked with mental-health challenges and ongoing stress.
Understanding the type of loneliness, you’re experiencing can help you take the right steps to address it.
Why Winter Can Make Loneliness Worse
- Shorter daylight hours and poor weather can negatively affect mood and motivation.
- Students may feel isolated if they stay on campus while others leave for holidays.
- Increased financial pressure and academic stress can deepen feelings of disconnection.
- Research continues to show a strong link between loneliness and mental health.
Winter is a time when staying connected and taking care of your wellbeing is especially important.
Looking After Your Wellbeing This Winter
Acknowledge How You’re Feeling
Recognise loneliness is an important first step. Writing your thoughts down or talking openly about them can make a big difference.
Talk to Somone
Reach out to friends, flatmates, course-mates or family. Even a short message or call can help you feel grounded. Campus wellbeing teams are also here to support you. Brunel Mental Wellbeing Services
Keep a Routine
Regular sleep, meals, study time, and breaks can help stabilise your mood. Consistency is especially important during darker months.
Move Your Body
Walks, gym sessions, stretching, or yoga can boost your mental well-being. A 10-minute outdoor walk can help reset your mind. You can try this beginner yoga tutorial from the comfort of your own room.
Be Mindful with Social Media
Social media can help you stay connected but be cautious about how it affects your mood. Try not to compare yourself to others online. People often post only their highlights as Christmas-related posts and photos from others may make your feel more
isolated. Comparing your experiences to others’ curated holiday highlights may worsen feelings of isolation or FOMO.
Treat Yourself
Take some time to indulge in what makes you happy. Take yourself out for a special meal. Remember, you don’t need to follow traditions or cater to others’ expectations – this is your time to do what feels good for you. Just be mindful of balance; financial burden and overindulgence. Consider other ways to pamper yourself, like doing face masks, lounging in your coziest pyjamas with hot chocolate to watch Christmas movies.
Things To Do This Festive Season
Good ol’ Winter Wonderland (Tickets)
One of London’s biggest festive attractions, Winter Wonderland offers Christmas markets, rides, an ice rink, live shows, and incredible food stalls. Entry is usually free during off-peak hours (ticketed during peak), making it a great option for a group trip or a solo day out.
Christmas Markets Across London
London is full of markets during December — perfect for picking up gifts, enjoying seasonal food, or soaking up the festive lights. Some popular options include:
Ice Skating
Winter is peak skating season! Whether you’re experienced or just want a laugh with friends, there are several rinks to choose from:
Christmas Lights Trails (Full List Here)
London comes alive with winter light displays. You can explore:
- Oxford Street & Regent Street Christmas Lights
- Kew Gardens “Christmas at Kew” Light Trail (ticketed but one of the best seasonal experiences)
- Westfield White City Winter Village – lights, food stalls, and festive pop-ups
These are great low-pressure activities to do with flatmates or course mates, and they make for fun winter memories.
Inclusion on Campus
On Christmas Day, in Locos the Union will be holding their annual Christmas pizza and movie night Thursday 25th December 1pm -5pm. This event is ticketed, please click here.
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