Homesick Blues: Coping with Homesickness While Studying Abroad

Homesickness is a common experience for many students studying abroad. It's a natural feeling to miss your family, friends, and familiar surroundings, especially when you're in a new and unfamiliar environment. While homesickness is a normal part of the adjustment process, it can be challenging to cope with.   

In this article, we'll explore the causes and symptoms of homesickness, provide tips for coping with these feelings, and offer advice on how to make the most of your study abroad experience. By understanding homesickness and implementing effective coping strategies, you can overcome these challenges and fully embrace your time abroad.

Understanding Homesickness

Homesickness is a natural response to being away from home and familiar surroundings. It can manifest in various ways, including:   

• Emotional symptoms: Feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, or depression   

• Physical symptoms: Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, or headaches   

• Behavioural symptoms: Withdrawal from social activities, excessive phone calls or emails home, or difficulty concentrating

Remember, homesickness is a temporary feeling, and with the right strategies, you can navigate these emotions and make the most of your study abroad adventure.   

Causes of Homesickness

Several factors can contribute to homesickness, including:

• Cultural differences: Adjusting to a new culture can be challenging and can lead to feelings of isolation or homesickness.   

• Language barriers: Difficulty communicating in a foreign language can make you feel isolated and homesick.   

• Loneliness: Being away from friends and family can lead to feelings of loneliness.   

• Stress: The stress of adjusting to a new environment and managing academic demands can contribute to homesickness.   

  
  

Coping with Homesickness

If you're experiencing homesickness, here are some tips to help you cope:

• Stay connected: Maintain regular contact with friends and family back home through phone calls, video chats, or social media.   

• Get involved in activities: Participate in campus activities, clubs, or sports to meet new people and make friends.   

• Explore your new surroundings: Discover new places and activities in your host city to keep yourself busy and engaged.

• Take care of yourself: Eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.   

• Talk to someone: If you're struggling to cope with homesickness, talk to a friend, family member, counsellor, or therapist.

ISEM Global Partners: Your Support System

At ISEM Global Partners, we understand the challenges that international students may face, including homesickness. Our team of experienced counsellors is available to provide support, guidance, and resources to help you cope with these feelings.

We can offer counselling sessions, connect you with other students, and provide information on local resources and support groups. By seeking support from ISEM Global Partners, you can navigate homesickness more effectively and make the most of your study abroad experience.