Estranged Student Solidarity Week | The stigma

This anonymous second year students shares their reflections on the stigma of being estranged.

Being an estranged student was a confusing, difficult yet rewarding journey. I had never heard of the concept of being estranged from your parents and most people will agree with me. Having to separate from your parents or not be in contact with them is very strange and lonely at times. However, the services and resources the wellbeing team and finance team provided were life changing and I am forever grateful for their hospitality. 

People often take having a safe and loving environment for granted. Having a healthy support system as a university student is crucial for your development and overall wellbeing. 

There is a stigma around estrangement. This is because religion teaches the importance of a child obeying their parents and society has the expectation that a parent’s actions and words are all in favour of the child. However, children are free-thinking beings and should be able to hold their parents or guardians accountable. 
I have used the student bursary, and not only did it help pay for my accommodation but gave me freedom to explore other parts of myself such as learning how to drive.

To students thinking about being estranged, the university has great resources and you are not alone. There are people that understand your situation and want the best for your wellbeing.