In her blog post, Mona reflects on the significant shifts that occur in our social lives after finishing secondaryschool. She candidly discusses the feelings of loneliness and uncertainty that often accompany this transition, and offers practical advice on how to navigate these changes.
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Friends are for most people a very important part of their life. Since the beginning of school or even in the pre-school, I‘ve had many different friendships, some were longer and some were shorter. There are only a few friends which are by my side until today. The most difficult challenge by this changing of friendships is when there is that one day, you‘ve finished school and it seems like you don‘t have friends anymore.
Finishing high school should be a great feeling like it‘s a big milestone in everyones life. But for many, it also brings a sense of loneliness and uncertainty. The familiar faces, routines, and support systems that were a constant presence in our lives suddenly change, leaving us to navigate a new and often overwhelming world.
When I finished school and started to work, my friends were still there, but we haven‘t seen us every day. The days are passing and we met and talked less to each other until one day we stopped contacting each other. Only two times a year, on each others birthdays, there is a very short conversation about what‘s going on at the moment, but I think I wouldn‘t call that a good friendship anymore, more like an acquaintance.
So there I was, moved out from home, felt like I have no friends, felt alone. It was one of the most challenging part for myself to recognize, that this is a normal phase in a life and I‘m not the only one feeling like this. I was struggling and searching for the reason why. Am I weird or strange? Am I a piece of work? Is there anything wrong with me?
Feeling alone after high school is a normal part of the transition to adulthood. It’s a time of significant change, but also a time of opportunity. By staying connected to old friends, actively seeking new social opportunities, and being patient with the process, you can overcome these feelings of loneliness and build a new, fulfilling social network. Remember, it’s okay to feel this way, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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Mona's experience of feeling lonely after secondary school is a common and normal part of the transition to adulthood. This period can be challenging as the familiar routines and support systems change, but it is also a time of growth and new opportunities. If you are feeling similarly, know that you are not alone. There are many resources available in Dublin, such as Jigsaw Dublin City, the HSE's Mental Health Services, and Turn2Me. Additionally, the therapists at D9 Therapy and Wellness are here to support you through these transitions. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we are here to help.
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