At Men’s Health Network, we understand that young men have a variety of questions and concerns when it comes to leaving the nest, especially when relationships have largely been built and formed through the internet over the last decade.
Jennifer Thompson
Director of Communications, Men’s Health Network
It has been both a blessing and a curse to meet friends online. However, ultimately, it has increasingly made the prospect of IRL friends an awkward challenge. So, let’s say you took the leap and have gone to a different city or a new state. You’re in a new place, trying your best to set up roots. Apartment, check. Job, check. Girlfriend? Friends? Nightlife? Not so much.
Building platonic relationships
When moving to a new place, consider your interests and get involved in your local community. It’s a great way to find friends who share your values, interests, and location! Here are a few more tips for connecting based on common beliefs and interests:
- Hobbies & clubs: Join a club or class, attend regularly, volunteer for activities,
be approachable, and initiate conversations. - Location-specific online forums: Find active forums, engage regularly, attend meetups,
be helpful and positive, and reach out. - Friend dates via apps or local services: Choose the right app, create a genuine profile, initiate contact, plan a casual meet, be yourself, and follow up.
Building romantic relationships
Dating is awkward for the best of us. Part of being in a relationship is the vulnerability and openness that these things tend to bring out, which can be uncomfortable in many ways. Even with a few awkward moments, romantic relationships, partnerships, and love are worth it. Studies aside, loving relationships help us grow and thrive, making it more important than ever with so many mental health worries. Here are some ways to make impactful, romantic connections:
- Visit parks and coffee shops: Pretend to be your grandfather and strike up a conversation with a local!
- Try dating apps: List your intentions on your profile and you’ll attract what you’re looking for.
- Join excursions: Whether you’re looking for a gym, camping, or reading buddy, there’s likely a local group for that just one Google search away.
Maintaining existing relationships
One of the main reasons people stay in their hometown is because of their existing relationships. Moving to a place where you don’t know anyone can be daunting, especially when you have strong bonds with family and friends. Here are some great tips for staying connected with your favorite people from your old city or state:
- Group chats & social media: Schedule regular phone calls, video chats, or social media platforms to share updates, photos, and messages, keeping everyone in the loop.
- Letters & care packages: Send handwritten letters or care packages to show you’re thinking of them. Add a personal touch.
- Share interests & stay interested: Participate in shared activities like online games, book clubs, or watch parties to maintain a sense of connection; show genuine interest in their lives by asking questions and being supportive of their milestones and challenges.
Moving to a new city or state presents unique challenges in forming and maintaining relationships. By engaging in local hobbies and clubs, participating in location-specific online forums, and using friend-making apps, young men can build meaningful connections.
Maintaining existing relationships from afar requires effort and creativity. Regular communication through group chats, social media, and video calls, along with personal touches like letters and care packages, helps strengthen these bonds, especially for young men.
At Men’s Health Network, we emphasize the importance of fostering new and existing relationships for personal growth and mental well-being. These strategies can help you build a supportive and fulfilling social network in your new environment.
