Homesickness and how to prevent it

Moving to university and away from family can be extremely difficult. starting your independent life is so exciting and full of new and fun opportunities but it doesn't take away the feeling of missing the people who you grew up. Homesickness by definition is the feeling of longing for one's home during a period of absence from it. Sometimes that feeling is attached to people, pets, inanimate objects you had to leave behind, etc.

Homesickness symptoms

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Felling lazy/unproductive
• Random breakdowns
• Sadness/crying
• Lack of concentration
• physical discomfort
• Feeling ill
• lack of sleep/ too much sleep 

Here are some tips to help you manage these feelings throughout your university life and beyond. 

• Call your family/friends. I know it might sound silly to even mention this but as university and your social life gets busy you may neglect calling your loved ones. It is important to take some time out to catch up with your family and share whatever you may feel is necessary. 
• Print out some pictures of your loved ones. While you're in the process of decorating your university room, a personal touch would be including some fun pictures of your favorite people. You'll be able to look up at them whenever you feel like you miss them. 
• Buy a candle that reminds you of home. The smell of home is irreplaceable but you can try replicate it with scents that remind you of home. 
• Talk to someone about how you feel. An honest conversation about your feelings might just be what you need. realising homesickness is a common and completely okay feeling is key.
• Find new people who can help you manage these emotions and maybe even become your new home. 
• Distract yourself. I know it is easier said than done but trying to find new hobbies to keep yourself busy may just be the solution to easing the feeling of homesickness. 
• Practice some self-care. It is important to look after yourself when you're feeling down. Read a book, go on a walk, start a new skincare routine- do anything that puts you at ease.
• Bring reminders of home along with you the next time you head home. Something that you can look at and smile at.
• Try to change your perspective. Think of moving away from home as a new journey and those you love will always be there to support you nonetheless. 

You will get through this! Everyone's journeys are different so be patient with yourself.