When we have to move out of our home to pursue new dreams, we are often faced with uncertainty about what our new life will be like or sometimes we have very high expectations and are overcome with homesickness when moving.
Homesickness is a common part of our lives and it is normal to experience it when we leave home for a new residence and leave many things behind. However, it is an opportunity to remember the good things, how far life has brought us and how far we can go.
If you are experiencing this feeling in your new residence, we talk to you a little about it and give you some tips on how to deal with it in the best way when moving.
What is homesickness?
Homesickness is a feeling that can be reflected as stress or anxiety and manifests itself after separating from some people or places you know. It is common to experience this feeling when moving to a new residence and we are forced to leave home.
It can affect anyone, whether a local or international student, and it is important to clarify that it can be experienced to any degree; that is, no matter how short the distance, homesickness can be felt just by not being in a familiar place, even if it is just turning down the street.
Fortunately, this usually lasts only a few days. According to the National Union of Students (NUS), although it typically affects 50-70% of students during their first few months at university, most students’ symptoms disappear after the third week.
Why do I have this feeling?
Homesickness occurs most often at the beginning of the academic year, however, in some cases, some students adjust much more quickly, but experience these feelings of homesickness after about a month, as the reality of university begins to sink in after the move.
It is also common to feel homesick in the weeks after the Christmas holidays, after spending quality time with friends and family at home, as the person may then find themselves alone or out of their comfort zone.
How do I know if I am homesick?
Although it may relate to a sad or disenchanted mood, the truth is that homesickness can produce other symptoms including:
- Disturbed sleep patterns
- Feelings of anger, sadness, nausea or nervousness.
- You may feel lonely, isolated or shy.
- You may also feel overwhelmed, very insecure or even panicky.
- You may have suddenly low self-esteem.
- Headaches
- Lack of appetite or lack of concentration.
It is very important to separate feelings of homesickness from feelings of sadness and depression. Homesickness usually lasts for a few days and does not necessarily lead to negative health issues, so if you feel it is affecting you more than it should, seek professional help.
Tips for dealing with homesickness
First of all, you need to understand that it is perfectly normal to miss familiar surroundings and have difficulty adjusting to new ones after moving house; homesickness is not a weakness or something to be ashamed of.
The best way to slowly but surely overcome homesickness is to fearlessly explore university life, even though it can be daunting at first.
A great way to cope is to meet like-minded people and join clubs and societies. It’s also a good idea to form groups with which you can visit new places and have new and fulfilling experiences.
Exercising, eating well and regulating your sleep are also essential activities for coping with homesickness.
Normally, homesickness tempts us to go straight home on the first weekend. However, it is recommended to use this time to get to know your surroundings and meet new people with whom you will have new experiences. Don’t be discouraged if being a student is not immediately the amazing experience you were hoping for. That will come in time as you settle in.
Where can I find external help?
In case you are feeling so homesick that sadness or other negative feelings are creeping in, be sure to seek professional help or help from someone very close to you.
Many universities also offer professional support services. They have a lot of experience in helping homesick students adjust to university life, so this can also be your escape from homesickness.
Homesickness is not a bad thing, it just needs to be channelled in the best way to make your new life. In residence and at university, the best thing that ever happened to you.
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