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Understanding Homesickness at University

Starting university is a huge step. It's an adventure filled with new experiences, opportunities, and of course, challenges. One common challenge that many students face is homesickness. This isn't just about missing home; it's a complex emotional experience that can include feelings of loneliness, longing, and even anxiety about being in a new place.

The Reality of Homesickness

Homesickness can strike anyone, regardless of age, background, or how excited they were initially about going to university. It's a natural response to a significant change in your environment and routine. When you move away from familiar settings, people, and routines to a completely new environment, it's normal to feel a sense of loss or disorientation. Statistics show that a sizable percentage of students experience homesickness at some point during their university life. This is particularly prominent during the first few weeks or months, as the initial excitement fades and the reality of being away from home sets in.

Real-Life Impacts

Feeling homesick can impact different aspects of your life at university. Academically, you might find it hard to concentrate or feel motivated. Socially, it could hold you back from making new friends or participating in activities. Emotionally, it might lead to feelings of sadness, isolation, or even depression. Understanding that these feelings are common can be the first step in managing them effectively.

How Homesickness Affects Young People

For teenagers and young adults, the transition to university represents one of the first major steps into independence. It's a critical period for developing self-identity, resilience, and life skills. When homesickness kicks in, it can feel like a step back in these areas, but it's actually a part of the process that many go through.

Strategies to Handle Homesickness

Managing homesickness involves proactive strategies to both soothe the feelings of missing home and enhance your current experience at university. Here are some practical tips:

1. Establish a Routine

Build a routine as soon as possible. Having a structure to your day can provide a sense of normalcy and control. Include time for classes, studying, social activities, and also for yourself - maybe reading, exercising, or practicing a hobby.

2. Make Your Space Comfortable

Decorate your room to make it feel more like home. Photos of family and friends, your favourite bedding, or any item that brings comfort can make a big difference.

3. Stay Connected with Home

Regular contact with family and friends can alleviate feelings of homesickness. Schedule regular calls or video chats to catch up and share experiences. Remember, it's about finding a balance you want to keep in touch without relying solely on your home connections for social interaction.

4. Get Involved

Engaging in activities can distract you from homesick feelings and help build new friendships. Join clubs, societies, or sports teams. Universities offer a plethora of activities catering to a diverse range of interests.

5. Seek Support

Don't hesitate to use the support services provided by your university. Many have counselling services or peer support programs specifically designed for dealing with issues like homesickness.

6. Explore Your New Environment

Actively explore your new city or town. Discover local attractions, cafes, parks, and other spots. This can help create a new connection to your current environment and make it feel more like home.

7. Give It Time

Lastly, give yourself time to adjust. Homesickness doesn't disappear overnight. Acknowledge your feelings and recognise that with time, the connection to your new life at university will grow stronger.

Conclusion

Homesickness is a common part of the university experience, but it doesn't have to define your time in higher education. By establishing a supportive routine, staying connected with your loved ones, and engaging actively with your new community, you can manage these feelings and emerge more resilient. Remember, it's okay to seek help and it's important to recognise that feeling homesick is a temporary phase that most students navigate through successfully.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.