UConn Today – November 5, 2024
Amanda Cooper, assistant professor of communication, studies interpersonal communication. Cooper’s research is at the intersection of interpersonal, family, and health communication.
Research indicates that an increasing number of college students are experiencing loneliness. According to a May 2024 report by the virtual college healthcare provider TimelyCare, in partnership with youth mental health nonprofit Active Minds, nearly 65% of college students reported feeling lonely, with 28.4% reporting often feeling isolated, 23.1% being left out, and 21% lacking companionship.
Cooper provides guidance on navigating feelings of loneliness and offers ways for students to address them.
“My recommendation for anyone feeling isolated is to start practicing the art of conversation…Building communication skills is important, and simply starting a conversation can go a long way.” Cooper shares.
Learn more about Amanda Cooper’s research and insight on UConn Today.