Combating Isolation in Your Online PhD Journey

Pursuing a PhD is already a demanding and often lonely road—but for students in online programs, that sense of isolation can feel even more intense.

You’re plugging away at your dissertation from your kitchen table. Your peers are scattered across time zones. Your advisor is busy, maybe silent. There’s no office door to knock on, no hallway conversation to spark a new idea. And somewhere in all that space, it’s easy to start wondering:

Am I doing this right? Is anyone else struggling like I am? Am I cut out for this?

As someone who works with dissertation students every day, I can tell you with certainty:
You’re not alone—and you’re certainly not the only one who feels this way.

Online doctoral students often juggle full-time jobs, families, and major life commitments while trying to produce rigorous, original research. Many don’t have local classmates or mentors they can lean on. And unlike traditional programs, online formats can lack the built-in community that helps students stay connected and supported.

So what do you do when it’s just you, your laptop, and a looming deadline?

Here are a few gentle reminders and strategies that have helped many of the students I’ve worked with:

1. 1. Find your people (even virtually).
      Look for Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or private communities for doctoral students. You’ll find others who get it—who are struggling with similar issues and can offer solidarity, feedback, or a little humor when you need it most.

1. 1. Schedule check-ins with yourself (and others).
      Whether it’s a weekly writing goal or a Zoom call with an accountability buddy, create structure and connection. Just knowing someone will ask how it’s going can keep you moving.

1. 1. Talk to someone who’s been there.
      Working with a dissertation coach or mentor can change everything. Sometimes, all you need is a second set of eyes, a clear path forward, and someone reminding you that you’ve got this.

1. 1. Be kind to yourself.
      Isolation can amplify self-doubt. Remember, you’re doing something hard—and you’re doing it during a time when support systems aren’t always easy to access. That makes your persistence all the more impressive.

At Dissertation Angels, I work with students who’ve been in your shoes. Many felt stuck, discouraged, and completely alone before we started working together—and now they’re finished, with degrees in hand! If you’re struggling with isolation, know that support is just a message (or call) away.

Let’s walk the rest of this road together.

Need support with your dissertation?
Let’s connect. Whether you need clarity, coaching, or just someone who gets it, Dissertation Angels is here to help.