Loneliness is a communal issue - support is available

Loneliness is something we all experience from time to time. Sometimes we can feel lonely even when surrounded by people. Especially when adapting to a new culture or new stage of life, loneliness can feel overwhelming. When loneliness is prolonged, it can have a strong negative impact on well-being and studies, and it can feel like a difficult cycle to get out of. Support for loneliness is available at UEF.

Sharing your thoughts and experiences with UEF’s trained peer counsellors can be a good place to start. Peer counsellors are master’s degree students in social and health sciences, who have been trained to offer counselling to students in a variety of challenging situations. They work under the supervision of UEFs study psychologists and campus pastors. Discussions with peer counsellors are strictly confidential, free-of-charge and anonymous, if you wish.

Campus pastors offer individual guidance by offering verbal aid for personal growth and the various changes life may throw at you. You can feel safe talking withe campus pastor, and you are not required to be a member of the church or possess a certain view of the world.

The Crisis Centers in Kuopio and Joensuu offer professional counselling for difficult situations in life, including loneliness.

Kuopio’s “Coffee & Friends” evenings offer students a place to come hang out after lectures, to enjoy refreshments and good company. You can come to the café on your own or bring someone with you. You are warmly welcome just as you are! The evenings are held on Tuesdays from 4pm to 6pm in the Studentia chapel.