Hey there folks! Today, we’re tackling a feeling that’s as common as finding a coffee mug in a dorm room; Homesickness… because it’s part of the journey! Whether you’re heading across the ocean to study abroad for a few weeks or a few months or in a new city in your home country, this little ol’ emotion often sneaks in uninvited. So, grab your go-to comfort item (whether it’s a cozy blanket, a favorite book, or a whole tub of ice cream), and let’s unpack this emotional baggage together!

Understanding Homesickness

Homesickness goes beyond simply missing home. Maya Angelou once said…

“The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.”

The key is to recognize that homesickness is a normal part of the human experience. Rather than seeing it as a weakness, understand that it signifies the strong bonds we have and the special memories that make home irreplaceable.

Study Abroad: Recognising Homesickness

Feeling homesick is a normal part of the study abroad experience – trust us, we’re the experts. Here are some common feelings associated with homesickness:

Food Cravings Gone Wild

Trying new foods is exciting, but there will come a time when you’d swap all the baguettes in France for a plate of your mom’s spaghetti. It’s not just the taste—it’s the memories and comfort associated with

those meals that make you miss home even more. (Tip: learn to cook your favorite comfort food before you leave home, your future self will thank you.)

Language Struggles

Nothing makes you miss your native language more than trying to order a drink and accidentally asking for a three course meal instead. (Yep, it happens more times than you’d think.) The daily struggle to communicate can be exhausting, and while you’ll learn a lot, sometimes you just want to have a conversation without feeling like you’re in a constant game of charades. Check out our blog on language immersion for tips & tricks on learning whilst away.

Time Zone Troubles

Trying to schedule a call with family and friends becomes a math problem straight out of a statistical textbook. “So, if it’s 4 PM here and they’re 8 hours ahead, what time will it be?” You end up with very odd hours for catching up, sometimes having to choose between sleep and a precious conversation.

College Life Homesickness

Let’s dive into the typical college experience. You might be thinking, “I’m still in my home country – how bad could it possibly be?” Let’s shed some light on the reality:

The Roommate Roulette

Suddenly, sharing a bathroom with your siblings doesn’t seem so bad compared to the mysterious stranger that is your new roommate. You start missing the familiarity and comfort of your family. The student experience can be challenging & adjusting to different habits can make you long for the comfort of home. It’s important to be mindful of our mental-health during this transition.

The Laundry Learning Curve

Who knew separating whites and colors was so crucial? Your new tie-dye wardrobe says hi, by the way. You never thought you’d miss your mom’s gentle reminders and help with laundry until now.

Independence

You finally have the freedom to do whatever you want – and all you want to do is have someone tell you to clean your room and go to bed at a reasonable hour. We understand!

The Homesickness Hiding Game

Everyone’s acting like they’re having the best time ever, but secretly, they’re all missing home too. And guess what? It’s okay to admit it. Sharing these feelings can actually bring you closer to others who feel a similar way! That doesn’t necessarily have to mean telling your cool new friends that you are ‘homesick’, it can be just a, ‘wow, this language game is tough’, or, ‘i’d love a (insert favorite pastime here) now!’. You may resonate with someone and strike up a deeper friendship.

Tips and tricks for dealing with homesickness:

Now that we’ve shared some common experiences, let’s talk about some solutions. Here are proven methods to help you tackle homesickness:

1. Embrace the Local Culture: Whether you’re in a new country or a different state, dive into local traditions and activities to feel more connected to your new environment.
2. Create a Homey Space: Decorate your room with photos, familiar items, and maybe even a plant to bring a touch of home to your new place. Check out our blog on how Your Dorm Can Be Your Sanctuary!
3. Join Clubs or Groups: Finding a community can make any place feel like home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet people who are also navigating the same new experiences. Check out Facebook groups and local meetups!
4. Keep a Journal: Writing down your experiences – the good, the bad, and the funny – it can be therapeutic and will give you great stories to look back on later.
5. Stay Connected, But Not Too Much: Regular check-ins with family and friends are important, but don’t let them stop you from making new friends and connections in your new setting. Plan ahead with some facetimes to ensure time zones aren’t too much of an issue. Plus, you’ll have something to look forward to! Check out our blog on making friends!
6. Lead with Compassion: If there’s one person you can count on during this journey, it’s you. Remember to be patient with yourself, it’s ok if it’s not always easy. Speak to yourself like you would a close friend, and lead with compassion.
7. Develop a Mindfulness Practice: Include some mindfulness habits into your daily routine. Such as meditation, yoga, and taking walks. These practices can help you stay present, reducing feelings of homesickness. Whatever you need, try to carve out the time. In need of some mindfulness yoga? Check out our wellness afternoon with mindhamok – Vinyasa Yoga with Jen!
8. Remember Your Purpose: Keep reminding yourself of your goals and the amazing opportunity you have. A little perspective can go a long way in easing homesickness, and improving our well-being.