How to Handle Loneliness and Find Support in River Falls
Winter break is supposed to be all cozy blankets, family traditions, and a house that suddenly feels too small. At least, that’s the version you see online.
But your reality might look very different.
Maybe you’re staying on or near campus in River Falls for winter break. Maybe home isn’t safe, or isn’t close, or just isn’t an option this year. Maybe you picked up extra shifts, you’re from out of state or another country, or you’re dealing with complicated family stuff that no one on Instagram sees.
If that’s you, this is for you.
You are not the only one staying behind, and you’re not wrong for feeling… lonely, stuck, or just off.
Let’s talk honestly about what it’s like to be “the one still here,” how to get through winter break on campus, and what to do if things feel heavier than you expected.
Why Winter Break Can Feel Extra Lonely
When campus empties out, everything feels different:
- Residence halls get quiet.
- Usual hangout spots are closed or have limited hours.
- Group chats go silent or fill with “look what I’m doing at home” posts.
You might find yourself thinking:
- “Everyone else has somewhere to be. Why don’t I?”
- “I thought I’d enjoy the quiet, but now it just feels empty.”
- “If something went wrong, who would actually know I’m here?”
Those thoughts are normal. Feeling lonely doesn’t mean you’re weak or dramatic—it just means you’re human.
Practical Ways to Survive (and Even Grow) During a Quiet Break
You don’t have to “love” this season to get through it in one piece. Start with small, realistic steps:
1. Build a loose daily rhythm
You don’t need a strict schedule, but a simple framework can keep the days from blurring:
- Morning: shower, coffee/tea, a short walk if sidewalks are safe.
- Midday: one “productive” thing (reading, a small project, work, cleaning).
- Evening: one thing that feels kind to you (movie, journaling, baking, calling a friend).
A little structure protects your mental health more than you’d think.
2. Name your feelings instead of stuffing them down
You’re allowed to say:
- “I feel left out.”
- “I’m sad my break doesn’t look like everyone else’s.”
- “I’m anxious about next semester, my relationships, or a possible pregnancy.”
Putting words to it doesn’t make it worse—it often makes it feel more manageable.
3. Stay connected in simple ways
You might not want to dump your whole story in a group chat, but you can:
- Text one trusted friend: “Hey, I’m on campus this break. Can we catch up sometime?”
- Schedule a regular FaceTime or phone call once a week.
- Join an online small group, church livestream, or campus ministry chat if that’s your thing.
Small touchpoints can keep you from feeling completely invisible.
When Loneliness Isn’t the Only Thing You’re Carrying
For some students, winter break isn’t just quiet—it’s when everything they’ve been avoiding has space to get loud.
You might be:
- Worried you might be pregnant
- Thinking about abortion and feeling torn
- Stressed about a relationship that feels off
- Hiding anxiety, shame, or fear under “I’m fine.”
If any of that sounds familiar, you don’t have to wait until January to get help.
How Options for Women Can Help (Quietly, and Without Judgment)
Options for Women in River Falls is here for college‑aged women who need a safe place to talk and get real information, especially when campus feels empty.
If you’re staying in or near River Falls for winter break, we can help you:
- Take a free, lab‑quality pregnancy test if you’re worried.
- Talk through all your options (including abortion information) in a private space.
- Process your feelings around relationships, family, or next steps.
- Connect to resources for ongoing support in the area.
We’re not here to pressure you. We’re here to listen, to provide you with facts, and to walk alongside you so you’re not carrying everything alone.
You will need an ID to visit. You won’t need insurance.
You Don’t Have to “Power Through” Winter Break Alone
Staying on or near campus for winter break can feel like everyone else got picked for something you didn’t. But this time doesn’t have to break you. It can be a moment to get honest, get supported, and take one small step toward feeling less alone.
If you’re in River Falls and need someone to talk to, or you’re worried about a possible pregnancy, reach out.
Options for Women – River Falls
Free, confidential support for college‑aged women.
Schedule an appointment here: https://optionsforwomenrf.com/appointment/
You’re not just “the one who stayed.” You matter, right here, right now—and we’re here when you need us.