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Homesickness remedy is a balm for students studying abroad. Being far away from home can sometimes leave you feeling lonely and longing for familiar comforts. But fear not! We’ve got your back with some simple solutions to ease those pangs of homesickness.
From virtual hangouts with loved ones to exploring local communities, these cures for homesickness will help you embrace your new surrounding while still staying connected to the warmth of home. Without further ado, let’s dive into it!
What are Some Common Homesickness Symptoms?
Homesickness syndrome is an emotional distress that hits when you’re in an unfamiliar place, far from home.[1] It’s that feeling of longing and sadness that sneaks in when you’re away. It can be triggered by various situations, such as sleepovers, school trips, or even spending nights away from family.
These instances can leave individuals feeling lonely, sad, and disconnected from their familiar surroundings. This syndrome highlights the deep longing for the comfort and familiarity of home that many of us experience when faced with new environments.
Homesickness symptoms can manifest in various ways, including unexplained sadness, a lack of motivation, and a loss of confidence.[2] The feeling of insecurity and a sense of being out of place can also be prevalent. Living in isolation, both physically and emotionally, is another common symptom.
Additionally, individuals may experience unexplainable pain, which can be a physical manifestation of the emotional distress caused by homesickness. These symptoms serve as indicators of the deep longing for familiarity and connection that comes with being away from home.
Does homesickness cause depression? While homesickness can certainly contribute to feelings of sadness and distress, it is important to distinguish it from clinical depression.
Homesickness is a temporary emotional state triggered by being away from home, while depression is a persistent mental health condition characterized by long-lasting and severe symptoms.[3] While homesickness can exacerbate feelings of low mood, it does not directly cause clinical depression.
However, if homesickness symptoms persist or worsen significantly, it is important to seek professional help to address and manage these emotions effectively.
How to Get Rid of Homesickness in Colleges for Study Abroad Students?
Moving to a different country can make you feel homesick, even if you were excited at first. It doesn’t matter if you come from a big city or a small town, studying abroad means going through a big change.
When you go to university, it’s usually the first time you live away from your family. It can be hard to deal with your emotions while feeling like you’re supposed to be having the best time ever.
But remember, homesickness doesn’t last forever and you don’t need professional help to get over it. There are simple things you can do to feel better and take care of yourself, which can be a homesickness remedy.
1. Have a Routine
Having a routine can be a great homesickness remedy. When you have a routine, it helps you feel better and gives you a sense of purpose. It makes you feel positive and motivated.
You can start by doing simple things like cleaning your room, working out, or having a meal plan. These activities give structure to your day and make you feel more settled in your new environment. In short, having a routine can help distract you from feeling homesick and make you feel more at home.
2. Make Plans
Making plans to visit a friend or family can be a helpful way to cure homesickness. When you plan a visit, it gives you something to look forward to and reminds you that you’ll see your loved ones soon. Knowing that you have a future reunion can bring comfort and ease your homesickness.
In the meantime, while waiting for the trip to happen, you can focus on your studies and getting things done. It helps keep your mind occupied and makes the time pass more quickly.
3. Decorate Your Room
Decorating your room can be an effective homesickness remedy. When you make your room feel like a home, it creates a comforting and relaxing environment for you. Adding personal touches to your room can make a big difference. You can decorate it with things like cushions, plants, or photos of happy memories.
These items will make your room feel more personal and remind you of familiar and comforting things. Surrounding yourself with these familiar objects can alleviate homesickness and make you feel more at ease in your new space.
Also, creating a cozy and personalized atmosphere in your room can help you feel more connected and settled.
4. Keep Yourself Busy
Joining student clubs and societies can be a great homesickness remedy. By participating in activities like drama, media and publication, entrepreneurship, or community service, you can step out of your comfort zone and keep yourself occupied.
Engaging in these clubs and societies allows you to meet new people, make friends, and develop new skills. It provides a sense of belonging and connection, which can help alleviate homesickness.
By being involved in these activities, you’ll have a busy schedule and less time to feel homesick, making it easier to adjust to your new environment.
5. Build New Friendships
Finally, building new friendships is a powerful way to overcome homesickness. When you interact with the locals in your new place, it becomes one of the best parts of being in a new location. Engaging with the local community allows for a meaningful exchange of cultural values, ideas, and customs.
Through these interactions, you can form lasting friendships that provide support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Developing relationships with locals helps you feel more connected to your new environment and lessens the feelings of homesickness.
Final Words
In conclusion, homesickness is a common experience for students studying abroad, but there are effective remedies to overcome it. Establishing a routine, making plans to visit loved ones, decorating your room, keeping yourself busy, and building new friendships are all valuable strategies.
Remember, homesickness is temporary, and with time, you can adapt and thrive in your new environment. If you’re considering studying abroad in Europe, be sure to check out our article on the cheapest countries to study in. It’s a great resource to help you plan your international educational journey!
