Moving into your own place can feel like freedom, chaos, and grief all at once. It is common to feel more anxious, unsettled, or lonely when living alone for the first time. People who live alone are more than twice as likely to say they feel lonely often, compared to people who live with others.1 None of that means you made the wrong choice. It usually just means you are adjusting to a big change, and that adjustment is part of taking care of your mental health too. mindyourmind‘s Self-Care & Coping Resources page has grounding and stress tools you can lean on while you settle in.
It’s Normal to Feel Lonely Sometimes
Young people aged 15 to 24 report some of the highest rates of frequent loneliness in Canada.¹ More recent data confirms loneliness is still a significant concern for young people.³ Loneliness is not the same as being alone. You can live solo and feel connected, or live with roommates and still feel isolated.² Feeling lonely during a big life transition is common, and it does not mean something is wrong with you, your new place, or your choices.²
If low mood, hopelessness, or losing interest in things you used to enjoy starts sticking around, it may be more than moving-related stress. It could be worth learning more about depression or talking to someone you trust.
Build a Small Routine to Ground Your Days
A new apartment with no set schedule can start to feel disorienting fast. A simple routine can help your days feel more steady. Try choosing a few anchor points, such as:
- A consistent wake-up time
- A regular grocery day
- A short walk after work or school
- A weekly cleaning reset
- A planned check-in with a friend or family member
You do not need a perfect schedule. A few small habits can help protect your mental health while you adjust to living on your own.
Managing Money Stress Without Losing Your Mind
Rent, groceries, utilities, and unexpected costs can add up fast when you are covering them yourself. Money stress can affect your mood, sleep, focus, and confidence.
Getting familiar with your bills and building a simple budget can make costs feel more predictable. mindyourmind‘s Bringing Home the Bacon is a low-pressure way to practice budgeting and money basics.
Stay Connected on Purpose
When you no longer share space with roommates, family, or friends, connection has to happen more on purpose. That could mean scheduling a regular call, joining a class or group, or texting a friend first instead of waiting for them to reach out.
Staying connected can support your mental health, and loneliness can feel heavier when it is left alone.² Even small moments of connection can help your first apartment feel less isolating.
Give Yourself Grace During the Adjustment
It can take weeks or months to feel settled in a new place. Some days will feel exciting, and others may feel harder than expected. Be patient with yourself as you figure out your routine, budget, and social life in this new chapter.
When to Reach Out for Support
If loneliness, stress, or anxiety about living on your own is sticking around or getting in the way of your daily life, that is worth talking about. You do not have to wait until things feel unbearable. mindyourmind‘s Getting Help page can help you find the right next step, whether that is a trusted person in your life or a mental health professional.
References
- Statistics Canada. Canadian Social Survey: Loneliness in Canada. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/211124/dq211124e-eng.htm
- CMHA Toronto. Loneliness and Connection. https://cmhato.org/understanding-mental-health/loneliness-and-connection/
- Canadian Mental Health Association. Fast Facts on Loneliness. https://cmha.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/CMHA-MHW-2026-Factsheet-Fast-Facts-on-Loneliness.pdf