How to deal with homesickness at University

Moving away from home can be a very stressful time for many students and it’s a problem that many of us students haven’t found a solution to. I thought I’d write this blog with some simple tricks and tips that worked for me and helped me fight the battle against homesickness.

• • • First of all I don’t want you guys to give yourself a hard time about feeling this way because it is completely normal. Homesickness is so common amongst freshers and I’m sure there will be many students who are in the same situation as you.
    • Another great tip that I would recommend would be to get out of your room and stay busy. I know it might be tempting to just sit in your room but you have to realise that you’re in a new city with new people and so many new ways to stay busy. Universities have clubs,  societies and even part-time jobs that can occupy you when you’re feeling a bit homesick.
    • Many people have really unrealistic expectations of university and it’s easy to start comparing yourself to what you have been told which will make you’re experience look way worse than it really is. I know you may have been told that university is one big party where you’re drunk most nights but this is not always the case so don’t set your expectations too high to avoid disappointment.
    • You must have a few things that would remind you of home that you can bring with you to make you feel a bit more at home. Maybe a teddy bear or I used to have a collage of family photos up on the wall.
  • • During the times you may be feeling homesick it is important to stay positive and that will make it easier for you to make new friends and consequently feel way more comfortable at university.
  • • If some of the tips don’t work for you then make sure you don’t suffer in silence. Your university will most likely have a counselling service that is available to help with any of the struggles that you may be having at university.
  • • You’re in a new city! There are so many new people, places and things to do so make the most of it and go and explore your surroundings – maybe go for a walk or volunteer somewhere.
  • • We have FaceTime, Skype, Phones and all sorts of ways to keep in touch with home so keep in contact and check up on your friends and family and their comforting voices should ease the homesickness
  • • Above all, make sure you all stay active and healthy as it will do wonders for your mental health. Maybe subscribe to a gym or there are so many other low cost fitness ideas you may be interested in starting.

I hope the tips that I have included above make the transition into university a little bit more smoother. There will definitely be a lot of new people and a few more challenges but I’m sure you will all be fine. I wish you all the best in your first year – Stay positive!