How Do I Make Friends in College?
Navigating your way through college and feeling like you don't know anyone can be tough. Making friends can feel like a big challenge, but it's important to remember that most students are in the same boat. We're all just trying to figure things out as we go along in this new chapter of our lives.
Looking for ways to make good friends and let go of toxic relationships in college? This article provides practical advice on forming meaningful connections and nurturing a positive outlook. Continue reading to discover how to cultivate friendships throughout your college experience!
Managing Anxiety While Making New College Friends
College life offers exciting opportunities, but it can also be stressful. Many students deal with college anxiety and are actively coping with depression as they try to fit in, succeed academically, and adapt to a new environment. But remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone—forming genuine friendships can provide the support you need.
Acknowledge Your Feelings and Seek Support
Feeling the effects of college anxiety is completely normal, especially during the first weeks of starting college. The first thing to do is acknowledge your feelings. It’s important to be kind to yourself and recognize what you’re going through. If you need help, most campuses offer therapy for college students. They will support you, provide ways to manage your feelings and present you with additional opportunities to make new friends. If seeing a therapist at school is a little too close to home, off-campus therapy support in the greater Fort Worth area is also possible.
Start Small and Be Patient
Building friendships takes time. Get involved in group activities or social gatherings at your school to meet new people in a relaxed setting. Allow your friendships to grow organically, and don't feel pressured to become best friends immediately.
Prioritize Self-Care
Remember to take some time for yourself. Engaging in activities that help you relax and feel better will boost your confidence, especially if you're coping with depression. Prioritizing your mental health will help you feel good and prepare you to connect more authentically with others.
Tips for Initiating New Friendships and Building Your Social Circle
After addressing your emotions, the next step is connecting with others. Here are some practical ways to build meaningful friendships:
Join Campus Activities
Check out the different clubs, sports teams, and groups at school that you like. Joining local activities can help you befriend people who share your interests. This is one of the most natural ways to spark friendships with others while doing something you both enjoy.
Be Open and Welcoming
Small gestures like smiling and maintaining open body language signal you're approachable. Remember, many other students are in the same boat, so your efforts will likely be appreciated. Look for areas of commonality that can help you connect in an opening conversation, and know that many friendships begin with a simple “hello.”
Use Social Media Wisely
Follow your school's social media accounts and join online student groups to stay informed about events and opportunities. This will allow you to connect with your peers virtually before meeting them in person.
Setting Healthy Boundaries in College Friendships
It's important to remember that not all relationships are good as we make connections with others. Setting boundaries is increasingly important for improving mental health and building good, supportive friendships.
Know Your Limits and Communicate Them
Before starting new relationships, thinking about what makes you feel safe and secure in friendships is crucial. Take some time to consider what values drive your social need to connect, and how these come across in relationships with others. Often, you may not know that a boundary has been crossed until it happens, but this is a great time to set clear limits and know what’s important to you moving forward. It's perfectly fine to decline things that don't align with your values or to request improved communication. Being upfront about your needs in a relationship is vital. If discussing these matters feels challenging, seeking assistance from a counselor is a helpful option.
Recognize Red Flags
It's essential to recognize the signs of a bad friendship. If someone always does things that upset you, tries to tell you what to do all the time, or makes you feel bad about yourself, it's okay to spend less time with that person. It's better to be with people who make you feel good and help you when you're feeling upset or worried.
Good friendships can also survive with time apart. You may need to express a desire for personal space and time when necessary. This is a part of learning where your limits of extroversion are, and what you need to recharge. Prioritizing and enforcing self-care at this stage in life will have lasting benefits beyond graduation.
Making friends in college can be challenging, but it's definitely worth the effort. We're all navigating this new phase, so being kind to yourself and trusting the process is crucial. Taking care of your mental well-being and setting boundaries isn't selfish; it's empowering. College is a time for personal growth, fun, and creating lasting connections. Don’t hesitate to find a college counselor if you need extra support. You deserve help during this time, and seeking support for your mental health can genuinely make a difference. When you feel ready, contact the North Texas Adult & Child Counseling Center. Our therapists provide therapy for college students, offering support as you build friendships and navigate the challenges of college life. Taking the initial step might seem daunting, but it will ultimately be worthwhile! Remember, you're not alone, and seeking help demonstrates your resilience.
