We’ve come to the end of the first week back (unless you’re starting next week instead)! Many people can find themselves feeling homesick at the start of the new term. This isn’t uncommon- in fact, research shows that 70% of students report feeling homesick at some point.
Signs of homesickness include preoccupying thoughts about home, friends and family from your hometown, withdrawal from social activities and work, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. If you are feeling homesick, here’s a few tips that may help:
- Get out and keep busy- maybe now could be the time to join a new society or the gym?
- Bring some home comforts- making your university living space as homely as possible is important!
- Call home (but not too often)- maintaining some connection with your home support network is important, but maintaining a balance (aka not cancelling plans with friends so that you can call home again) is key
- Talk to someone- if you’re finding it difficult to cope, speak to someone about it, whether that’s university counselling services, friends, or us!
- Give yourself time- it may take a bit of time to adjust to being back after the Christmas break, and that’s okay
Homesickness can happen at any point even if you’ve already been at university for a few years, so don’t beat yourself up about it. Also, if you notice that a friend is withdrawing, reach out to them a few times and let them know that you’re there for them.
Warmly,
Anon
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