No love in student land

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It looks like students have no time for love and relationships anymore, thanks to the added pressures of the credit crunch.

The recession means students are not only burdened with the pressure of their course, but with financial worries as well.

Catherine Allen from Relate, said: “Student relationships will be subject to financial pressures particularly as they have a high level of debt and are subject to the same employment trends.”

Students are now focusing all of their attention on finding employment and achieving the best degree possible to increase these chances. Whilst university has united many couples over past generations, this generation seem to have other things to worry about.

Ashley Lansiquot, 21, a final year student, said: “I broke up with my girlfriend in second year. I just didn’t have time for a relationship. Now I’m trying to finish my course and worrying about getting a job. Love is the last thing on my mind.”

With the unemployment figures rising rapidly, this year has been named as the worst year to graduate in two decades. Many consider a relationship to be more of a hindrance than anything else.

However, Catherine Allen added: “It all depends if the relationship is healthy and mutually beneficial. If the relationship is full of tension it is likely to take energy away from study and can prevent students from focussing. If, on the other hand, the relationship is a good one based on commitment and understanding, it is likely to play a supportive role.”

If you are worried about your relationship and need some support, contact Relate: 0300 100 1234.