Embracing change: How to support yourself and others

Change is a natural part of life, and it can occur quite regularly - especially for students. Some change is bigger than others, like transitioning to a new University or College, moving to a new city, or changing your course, and some change is more frequent - like a change to your class schedule or location, lengthy holidays or weekend plans. These changes can bring a wave of uncertainty and sometimes discomfort. As a student, when life is already feeling new and different, even small disruptions to routine can feel overwhelming and isolating. 

Understanding that these feelings are not only normal but also manageable is the first step toward building resilience against change. But also and importantly, students shouldn’t have to face these challenges alone - especially when so many of them are dealing with the same thing!

Why is a change in routine sometimes so disruptive? 

Humans are wired to seek predictability. Routines can help us to feel calmer and more in control, and they often help us feel safe. When routines change or are disrupted (like starting a new course, moving in with new people, changing location) this can trigger stress responses. Stress can manifest in a host of different ways causing anxiety, fatigue, brain fog or sometimes the want to withdraw socially. When we are highly stressed, it is easy to feel we’re alone and that others are handling things just fine. But it’s important to remember that appearances are often deceiving. Behind the scenes, many are dealing with or even battling similar emotions.

How can students support themselves during periods of change?

1. Acknowledge and sit with the discomfortIgnoring your emotions doesn’t make them disappear. Recognizing that change is difficult allows you to respond with kindness rather than self-criticism.

2. Create micro-routinesIf everything feels out of sync and you know that a routine will help you, why not start small? Try waking up at the same time each day, schedule short study blocks, or set aside a few minutes for daily reflection or meditation. These small routines help build stability.

3. Set realistic expectationsIf you’re in a slump or panicking about change, you don’t need to adjust everything immediately. Give yourself the time and space to adapt. Progress is progress, no matter how slow! 

4. Stay physically and socially activeMovement, nutrition and social connection significantly impact your mental wellbeing. Even a walk with a friend or listening to something soothing can help reset your nervous system and lift your mood. Again, set achievable and realistic goals with this, you don’t need to start training for a marathon - but a couple of brief walks outside or coffees with friends could make a big difference. 

The power of connection and peer support

When facing change, little is more comforting than knowing you're not alone. This is where community and peer support can be absolutely vital.

1. Shared experienceWho better to connect with than other students who understand the academic and emotional pressures you're under - because they’re living them too. Sharing experiences can validate your feelings and reduce the fear that you're not coping. 

2. Active listeningSometimes, just being heard is enough. Creating a space where students feel safe to talk without fear of judgment can alleviate a huge mental burden.

3. Motivation and accountabilityStudents can help each other stay on track with new routines by checking in, setting shared goals, or studying together. These shared commitments make it easier to stay engaged, even on the rougher days.

4. Building a sense of belongingIsolation can deepen feelings of discomfort. By being part of a supportive group whether it’s a club, whatsapp group, study circle or TalkCampus - you are enabling yourself to gain a sense of connection and community. 

How can students support others?

• Start the conversation: If you’re feeling off, chances are someone else is too. Don’t be afraid to open up.

• Check in regularly: A simple “How are you holding up?” can go a long way.

• Create your own support groups: Whether it’s a weekly study group or a casual chat over coffee, consistent meet-ups provide both structure and emotional relief.

• Be patient and kind: Everyone adapts differently. Encourage, don’t compare.

• Know when to encourage help-seeking: Peer support is powerful, but sometimes professional help is needed. Be open to helping a friend find campus resources or mental health services when appropriate.

• Take part in the TalkCampus Volunteering Programme: This self-led training programme teaches students valuable and transferable communication skills. It helps students to support others with empathy and patience, creating a space where all students feel safe and supported. 

Change is inevitable, but suffering in silence doesn’t have to be. When students come together with compassion, vulnerability and good intentions, they create a supportive ecosystem where everyone is supported and held in the moment, no matter how uncertain things may feel. TalkCampus connects students from all over the world completely anonymously to talk through the ups and downs of life. It’s the perfect place to share and be heard. 

Let’s remind each other that in times of change, connection is one of the most powerful tools we have. No one has to go through it alone.