27 Jan How to deal with Home sickness

Studying abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. One of the most common challenges that students face when studying abroad is homesickness. Homesickness is a normal feeling that occurs when you are away from the familiar comforts and people you love. It can manifest in a variety of ways, such as feeling lonely, anxious, or sad. If you’re currently studying abroad and struggling with homesickness, here are some tips to help you cope.

1. Stay connected with loved ones back home. One of the biggest reasons that students feel homesick is because they feel disconnected from their loved ones back home. To combat this, make sure to stay in touch with your family and friends through phone calls, video chats, and social media. This will help you feel like you’re still a part of their lives, even though you’re physically far away.
2. Embrace your new surroundings. One of the best ways to combat homesickness is to immerse yourself in your new surroundings. This means taking advantage of the opportunities to explore and experience the local culture, customs, and traditions. By doing so, you will be able to create new memories and develop a sense of belonging in your new home.
3. Meet new people and make friends. One of the most effective ways to combat homesickness is to meet new people and make friends. This can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re shy or introverted, but it’s worth the effort. Joining clubs, organizations, or groups that align with your interests is a great way to meet people with similar interests. You can also try reaching out to other international students, who will likely be experiencing similar feelings of homesickness.
4. Find ways to stay active and busy. Homesickness can be exacerbated by feelings of boredom or aimlessness. To combat this, find ways to stay active and busy by signing up for classes or extracurricular activities, getting a part-time job, or volunteering. This will not only keep you occupied, but it will also give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
5. Practice self-care. Homesickness can take a toll on both your physical and mental well-being, so it’s important to practice self-care. This means getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. You should also take time to relax and de-stress, whether that means reading, meditating, or listening to music. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to deal with homesickness when it strikes.
6. Seek support when needed. Homesickness is a normal feeling, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your experience. If your homesickness becomes overwhelming or is impacting your daily life, it’s important to reach out for support. You can talk to a therapist, counselor, or advisor. They can provide you with strategies to manage your homesickness and support you through this difficult time.

Studying abroad can be an amazing opportunity, but it can also be challenging. Homesickness is a common experience among students studying abroad. However, by staying connected with loved ones, embracing your new surroundings, making new friends, staying active and busy, practicing self-care, and seeking support when needed, you can successfully cope with homesickness and make the most of your study abroad experience. Remember, homesickness is normal and it will pass, but if it persist and it´s affecting your mental health, seek for professional help.