If you’re staying in accommodation over the Christmas break, you might find the campus a little quieter, your flat emptier, and the days slower than during term time. But it doesn’t have to feel isolating, this break can be a chance to rest, try new things, or build connections.
Here’s a student-friendly guide to making the most of your Christmas stay and keeping loneliness at bay.
Here are some realistic, fun ideas for students who stay on campus or in town during Christmas:
Join or Organise Festive Gatherings
– Host a Secret Santa with other students staying over.
– Organise a quiz night or movie night in your flat or common room. Turn on Christmas films or make a playlist of seasonal songs.
Volunteer Locally
– Volunteering is a great way to feel connected and purposeful.
– Look for opportunities with local charities, food banks, or community centres, many need extra help around the holidays.
Get Outside & Active
– Go for winter walks around campus or your town. Fresh air and daylight help boost mood.
– Look for local outdoor activities, Christmas markets, ice skating, or seasonal lights are often still around.
– Join a fitness class (ie yoga) if your uni or local gym is running sessions. Staying active is good for both mental and physical health.
Explore Your City
– If you’re in or near a city, take advantage of quieter streets during the break.
– Visit Christmas markets, cafés, or cosy pubs in your area, even solo, it can feel festive and grounding.
Build Structure, Even Without Classes
– Create a break routine for yourself: set times for relaxing, studying (if you want), exercising, and socialising.
– Use this time to pick up a new hobby or project, write, bake, draw, journal, or try something you never had time for during term.
Use University Support & Wellbeing Resources
– Many universities run special support systems over Christmas, so check what your uni offers (online communities, peer support, mental health services).
– Reach out via student networks or apps.
– Practice self-care: take days to unwind, put your phone away, meditate, or listen to podcasts.
Connect with Family & Friends Virtually
– Schedule video calls with your family or friends, even a short chat can help you feel connected.
– Host a virtual games night, quiz, or movie-watching session to stay in touch.
– Write letters or e-cards, sometimes slower, more thoughtful communication is more meaningful than constant messaging.
– Having structure helps you feel less isolated.
– Building new connections and giving back boosts your sense of purpose.
– Being active (even with simple exercise) releases endorphins, improves your mood, and supports mental health.
University of Winchester:
Support for students staying over the break
University of Southampton:
Student Life wellbeing and support services
Solent University:
Health & Wellbeing support (including counselling)
University of Surrey:
Centre for Wellbeing, counselling & loneliness support
Thrive wellbeing & loneliness support
