Studying Away From Home and Feeling Homesick? Read This!

This article is inspired by youngest grand daughter feeling of homesickness while studying abroad in Europe for the last 2 years. Hang on there, my Pangga. The time is near for success ( less than 60 days)!

The feeling of homesickness is very common especially for students studying abroad or away from home. I have experienced homesickness during my first year of graduate school in Chicago, Illinois in the 1960's. The feelings of homesickness is accelerated during holidays and before examinations.  I described this feeling of being alone (in my autobiography). It was an experienced I will never forget. 

https://planningtovisitthephilippines.blogspot.com/2014/06/autobiography-update-chapter-6.html

My homesickness almost tempted to stop graduate school, but my ambition to obtain a doctorate degree helped me conquered homesickness and attained my goal to have a Ph.D degree here in the US in 1964.

Here's an excellent article on what to do when you feel homesick applied specifically for students studying away from home.  

Homesickness can lead to more serious mental health issues such as depression, so it's important that you confront it. However, always remember that it's perfectly normal to miss familiar surroundings and struggle to adapt to new ones - feeling homesick isn't a weakness or something to be embarrassed about.

The most reliable way to beat homesickness is to immerse yourself in university life, even though this can be daunting at first.

A great way to meet like-minded people is to join clubs and societies. It's also a good idea to visit places of interest in your new town or city and get involved in local events.

Even when you need to do something on your own, such as a piece of coursework, try to get out of your room. For example, study in the library or take your laptop to a coffee shop. Being among other people will help you feel less isolated.

Exercising, eating well and regulating your sleeping pattern are also essential.

In addition, it's important that you manage your relationship with home. Regular contact with friends and family is important, but at the same time you need to give yourself space to focus on your new life. Constant phone calls or social media messaging will exacerbate your negative feelings.

Here are 2 informative videos:

 

 For complete details visit:

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/applying-for-university/university-life/what-to-do-when-you-feel-homesick