Struggling with homesickness?
Introduction:
Starting university in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. If you're dealing with homesickness or culture shock, don’t worry—these feelings are completely normal. In this blog, we’ll share some practical tips to help you adjust to your new life and beat homesickness.
How to Beat Homesickness When You Are Studying Abroad
Moving to a new country for university is a big step, and it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. Between learning about a new culture, navigating a different education system, and being away from home, homesickness can easily creep in. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you settle in and make the most of your time abroad.
Find a Restaurant That Serves Food from Your Country
Nothing brings comfort quite like the familiar taste of home-cooked meals. The UK’s rich multicultural landscape means you can find restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world. Treat yourself to a meal that reminds you of home, or better yet, cook something yourself and share it with your new friends. This is a great way to introduce your culture to others while also enjoying a comforting taste of home.
Decorate Your Room
Your room is your sanctuary, so make it feel like home. Even if you can’t make permanent changes, adding personal touches can help ease the transition. Decorate with photos of loved ones, bring along your favorite bedding, and put up posters or artwork that makes you smile. Adding small touches like cushions, fairy lights, or trinkets from home can make a big difference in making your space feel cozy and familiar.
Exercise or Join a Sports Team
Staying active is a great way to combat homesickness and improve your mental health. Exercise releases endorphins that boost your mood and help you manage stress. Joining a sports team or fitness class is also an excellent way to meet new people and form friendships. Most universities offer a wide range of sports and fitness activities, so whether you’re into yoga, football, or something else, there’s likely something for you.
Make Friends from Your Home Country
While making local friends is important, connecting with people from your home country can be incredibly comforting. They’ll understand your cultural references, share your sense of humor, and can offer support on days when you’re feeling particularly homesick. Look for student groups, social media pages, or community events where you can meet others from your home country.
Do the Things You Loved to Do at Home
Just because you’ve moved to a new country doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite hobbies. Universities in the UK have a wide variety of clubs and societies where you can continue doing what you love, whether that’s gaming, sports, music, or something else. Joining these groups is a great way to meet people with similar interests and keep a sense of continuity in your life.
Call Home (But Not Too Much)
Staying in touch with family and friends back home is important, but try to strike a balance. Frequent calls can sometimes make homesickness worse, especially if you’re spending more time online than with people around you. Start with regular calls and gradually reduce them as you get more involved in your new environment. Be mindful of time zones too—late-night calls might leave you feeling tired and disconnected during the day.
Give Yourself Time and Seek Help
Adjusting to a new country and university life takes time, so be patient with yourself. It’s okay if you don’t feel settled right away. However, if homesickness starts to feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help. Many universities offer counseling services and support groups for international students. Talking to someone who understands what you’re going through can make a big difference.
