National Best Friends Day is 8th June

In the first in a series of posts ahead of National Best Friends Day, we're taking a closer look at how we can maintain friendships over a distance as many of us prepare to leave Halls for the summer.

Video chatting has never been more popular

The pandemic meant even those who had never video chatted before might have logged in to catch up with their loved ones, and you can do the same now.

Whether you schedule a regular social with your group of friends or prefer to randomly call each other for quick chats throughout your day, video calling really can help you to feel like your friend is in the room with you.

You could try cooking along to the same recipe together whilst you call, or even playing some online games.

Send all the reels...

In this day and age nothing says I'm thinking of you more than sending someone a meme or reel that reminds you of them.

This is a good way to have a quick laugh with your friends at a time that suits you, and can even build on inside jokes and memories you shared during your time on campus together.

Make plans for when you see each other again

Though it may be a while away yet, making plans can keep you in touch in the mean time and give you something to look forward to.

Perhaps you you co-create a list of restaurants you both want to eat at, or parks you want to visit. It may help you to pass time in the present and means you'll have plenty of ideas when you do meet up again.

Respecting each other's space

Remember that you don't have to be in contact with someone every day for them to remain a good friend.

The more time that passes means the more you'll have to catch up on, and it's important to respect each other's boundaries, contact preferences and time spent with other friends and family (remember: they don't see these people when they are back on campus!).

If you are worried you and your friend may be drifting apart, gently voice your concerns with them but be prepared to find that they may just have different expectations of how much communication is appropriate when they are away or busy.

Ultimately, make the most of the time you have now, so that you have some amazing stories to share with each other when you reunite!

Check back in tomorrow for the next instalment in our social wellbeing campaign leading up to National Best Friends Day on 8th June.