Homesickness: Understanding and Coping with the Feeling
Homesickness is an intense feeling of sadness and distress a person experiences when they are away from their home or in a new environment. It can be a temporary feeling or a permanent one. It is a common occurrence among many people and can be triggered by various situations such as relocating, starting a new job, studying abroad, or moving to a new country.
Seeking Support: You're Not Alone
It is important to realize that everyone feels homesick at some point in their life, so don't be embarrassed or ashamed of your feelings! You'll feel better when you let others know how you are feeling and don't be afraid to ask for help.
You can also try talking to someone else, such as a friend or your House Parent, who might have had similar feelings in the past. They can be a great source of support and will not judge you for your feelings.
Normalizing Homesickness: It Happens to Everyone
Remember that homesickness is normal and can happen to anyone, even the most hardworking students. If you are struggling to cope with your homesickness, it is important to seek professional advice from a qualified mental health practitioner.
Exploring Your New Environment
Getting out and exploring the area is another important step to curing your homesickness. Taking walks around your new neighborhood will give you a chance to experience your new surroundings and make new friends. You can also buy little souvenirs that remind you of your home, such as a trinket or a blanket to hang on the wall.
Doing these things can help you get out of your comfort zone and make you feel more settled in your new home. They are also a good way to combat homesickness because they will make you feel more connected with your new community.
Engaging in Activities You Enjoy
It is also a good idea to make time for activities that you enjoy, such as painting, exercising, or dancing. This will help you forget about your homesickness and focus on other things.
Maintaining Connections: Balancing Old and New
Keep in touch with your family and friends back home but don't call them all the time! Texting or calling your loved ones too much can make you miss them even more and prevent you from interacting with the people in your new community.
Try to make new friends and learn the local language! It is a good idea to find an online social network that you can use in your new location. This can be a great way to connect with people from your new home and make some new friends while dealing with homesickness.
Support from Housemates and School Community
You can also ask your housemates to help you deal with your homesickness. They may have had similar experiences in the past and will know how to make you feel at home.
Recognizing Homesickness as a Common College Experience
It is not unusual for a lot of college students to suffer from homesickness, especially when they have gone to a new school and are far from their family. The fact that homesickness is common and can be a big problem means it's something that needs to be addressed. If you are experiencing homesickness, it is important to address your feelings and talk with your House Parent or an Ambassador who can give you some tips on how to get over it.
