Loneliness doesn't have to last

Do something every day that helps you to feel positive. This could be:

• something you enjoy, like listening to music, playing a game or watching videos online
• getting active by going for a walk, playing sport or doing yoga
• speaking to the people you care about, and asking how their day is
• doing something that gives you a sense of accomplishment, like finishing a piece of work, tidying up or starting a new hobby.

Even doing something small every day can help build improve your mood and make things easier to cope with. Not sure what to try? Get ideas with our Coping Kit.

Taking care of yourself means:

• getting enough sleep
• keeping to a routine during the day
• eating healthily and exercising
• having time in the morning and evening when you can relax.

Making small changes to build a healthy routine can be hard when you’re feeling stressed, but it can also make things easier to cope with. Try setting reminders on your phone to eat something healthy, take a break or to set a bedtime where you’ll get enough sleep.

Get more advice on taking care of yourself.

It’s not easy for everyone to make friends, if you’re finding it hard then you’re not alone.

It can take time to build friendships, but it’s often worth the effort. If you’re struggling about where to start, we’ve got some advice to help:

Make the first step

Avoid waiting for people to approach you to start conversations. Try talking to new people in your class or that you meet at activities.

Keep the conversation going

Ask questions about what someone enjoys and show an interest in what they say.

Be yourself

When you’re talking to people, try talking about the things you like to help find things in common.

Join clubs

It’s important to go places that you can meet people, this could be a club at school, volunteering or by going out with people you already know.

Take your time

Making close friends can take time, but getting to know people and talking to them is the first step.

Read our top tips for making friends.

There are lots of things that can make you feel like you’re alone. If you’re struggling, it’s always okay to ask for support from someone you trust.

Try thinking about who you’d want to support you. It could be a teacher, someone at school, an adult you feel safe with or even your doctor. If you’re struggling, it can help to read advice on starting the conversation.

Whatever’s happening, you don’t have to cope alone. And you can always talk to us.