Coping with homesickness

WHEN you go to college, you may only be a few miles away and in your own country, but homesickness can still strike.

It is an unsettling feeling that might hinder you from getting to grips with your study course.

Here are some ideas for overcoming homesickness.

Know what is going on

Homesickness is a stress reaction that comes from being in an unfamiliar place. You feel anxious and depressed because everything is new: the place, the people and the routine. As a result, you pine for the familiar routine of home and friends.

Recognise that it is temporary

It may feel like happiness is hard to attain, but that is part of the depression that comes from the stress of change. Homesickness goes away as soon as you start to make friends and adapt to the new routine.

Go out and mingle

The best way to adapt is by making new connections. That means going to class and talking to the person next to you or joining a club so you can meet people with similar interests.

Many others feel the same

The people around you are feeling just as unsettled as you are. Some will show it and others may not, but feeling disoriented in a new place is very common. So, know that you are not alone.

Stay off social media

Seeing that everything back home has not changed can be difficult. So, switch off the phone and connect with real people around you. You need to make a new home and you cannot do that over the phone.

Give it time

It will take a couple of weeks before you settle in. If you are still feeling homesick and depressed after a fortnight, consider seeing a counsellor. All colleges have them to help students with problems.