Year 12 students can feel lonely after graduating. Here’s how to stay connected
After graduating, young people enter an often enjoyable, but also challenging, period of new experiences.
As Year 12 students wrap up their formal education, graduation ceremonies signal the end of a significant phase in their lives. However, the transition from high school to adulthood can bring about feelings of loneliness for some. With friends off to study, work, or travel abroad, classmates may disperse to new towns or cities for their next chapter.
This period of change can result in young people feeling emotionally distant from the friendships and networks they once shared. Loneliness is not merely about being physically alone; it is the sense of disconnect between what a person desires in terms of relationships and what they actually have. In Australia, approximately 43% of individuals aged 15 to 25 report experiencing loneliness, a sentiment that seems to peak in those aged 18-25 according to Norwegian research.
Factors contributing to this loneliness in recent school leavers include the transition into 'emerging adulthood,' a developmental phase characterized by identity exploration, worldview formation, and navigating relationships, work, and love. This stage of life often involves significant social transitions, leading to heightened vulnerability to feelings of loneliness.
While these changes can be daunting, they also present opportunities for personal growth. However, if loneliness becomes a persistent issue during this time, there are strategies to mitigate its impact. Building meaningful connections requires courage and commitment. Regularly reaching out to friends, accepting invitations to new social events, and joining community clubs or groups centered around shared interests can foster a sense of belonging.
While social media can be a tool for connection, excessive use may exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Setting boundaries on its usage, such as limiting screen time and following accounts that inspire positivity, can help. For those who find connecting challenging, professional support is available. Consulting with a mental health professional can provide insights into one's experiences and equip individuals with coping strategies.
If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness, resources like Lifeline’s helpline (13 11 14) offer assistance and guidance.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
