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Students

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The global pandemic has awoken us all to the importance of social connection in helping our health and well-being. Early on in the pandemic the focus was on our seniors who were devastated by the isolation and loneliness that came with lockdowns, as well as the terrible health impact of Covid-19 on those who were infected. As time moved on, society became increasingly aware of the impact of social isolation on our young. Students missed attending classes, connecting with fellow students and being able to grow through the human connection opportunities that come with attending learning institutions. Coming out of the global pandemic, it is important for all students to better understand why human connection is so important for their happiness, health and success.

Here are a series of articles, videos and other content that we have selected to highlight the ongoing struggle of social isolation, disconnection and loneliness experienced by Students. If you have suggestions on other content that you think others would benefit from, please feel free to reach out to us at info@GenWellProject.org.

Understanding social isolation, disconnection and loneliness experienced by Students

  • Social connections important to well-being (Illinois State University) link
  • A study from September 2020, conducted by McGill and UofT found that students with pre-existing conditions were more negatively impacted by Covid-19 (link)
  • Social isolation can be very challenging for students when they’re looking to make new connections during this life period (link)
  • Students are lonelier than ever (link)
  • Understand the role that social media, gaming, 24 hour news and binge-watching can play in a student’s life (link)

Helpful Suggestions

  • Embrace going virtual — host a lunch group, game night or zoom night online (link)
  • However, be aware of the amount of technology you’re using (link)
  • Don’t wait for other people to initiate contact (link)
  • Realize you don’t need a million friends; rather, focus on developing solid relationships (link)
  • Consider joining a support group (link)
  • Go to virtual or in-person office hours to better know your Professors and fellow students (link)