Grad school has taken such a toll on me. I am earning a doctorate. I just moved back in with my parents so I can finish writing so I can get my degree ahead of schedule. I ended a relationship of four years in my first year of phd, and ever since I’ve been keeping a loop of guys to release some tension.

But now… I’ve never been more lonely. I moved out of the big city into a small town so I don’t have to stay in this program for the 6 yrs allotted (currently in my fourth). My day consists of waking up, French Lessons, working on my doc until 6, working out, dinner with the parents, sleep. I love this routine and I can see my progress, but I am so alone! I rationalised doing this for 6 months so I can pump out this baby and start my next step, but longing for human connection (beyond my wonderful parents) is making me unbelievably sad!

I can’t take on a relationship right now, and I left my hook-up loop players back in the big city. Any suggestions on how to alleviate some of this loneliness without jeopardising my routine?

Thanks!

Pre-doc saddy