High school can be filled with people.  Your social media is blowing up and you’re on several group chats, yet teens can still feel lonely within the busyness of their lives. According to a 2021 Harvard University report, 61% of teens and young adults in the United States reported feeling lonely almost all the time. The truth is, teens are surrounded by people who care about them. Your helpers are all around you; you just have to take time to find them.

How do I find people? Making new friends in high school can be challenging and intimidating. If you don’t already have a friend you can count on, the easiest way to make a friend is by looking for people who have the same interests as you. Take a look at the clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities at your high school or in your community. Showing up to meetings is a sure way to meet people with your shared interest who are also ready to make a new friend. 

Do you remember your first few meetings with your mentor? Was it sometimes awkward and a little scary? You can expect to feel the same way when making new friends. But don’t worry, it will pass just like it did with your mentor. You got this!

Many years ago, cell phone companies used to charge per minute for phone calls and per text you sent (there’s a point, I promise!). One phone company had a campaign to pick 5 people who you could have unlimited calls and texts with, so customers had to choose their top 5 people that they wanted to talk to the most. With that same thought, who are your top 5 people you can talk to when you’re feeling lonely? It could be someone from your family, school, place of worship, or neighborhood. Who are your top  people? Now, let them know they are in your top 5. Remember, you’re not alone and there are people around you who care about you.