Coping With Homesickness

By Shiv Manchanda with Roxanne Poon Young Student Feeling Depressed

It’s not unusual for new students to miss home-family, friends, teachers, and even pets. It’s natural to long for face-to-face time with people who know you well and to wish for the comforts of your usual routine.

According to data from the American College Health Association’s 2009 National College Health Assessment at the University of British Columbia, more than 25 percent of female students and 14 percent of male students reported feeling homesick in the last year, and about the same percentage felt lonely in the last two weeks.

With time, the adjustment to school will feel easier. In the meantime, here are 10 things you can do to feel more at home:

Establish a routine. This will help you get into the swing of things.
Decorate. Fill your room with pictures of places and people that make you smile.
Be creative about making new friends. Talk to people in your classes, in the cafeteria, when waiting in line-almost everyone is looking to connect.
Get involved. Activities (clubs, fitness classes, volunteering) will not only keep you busy but also introduce you to new people.
Follow your interests. Other students who like Ping-Pong, music, or whatever you’re into will help you feel like there’s a niche for you. Accept invitations or ask people yourself.
Reach out for support. Residence life staff, advisors, clergy, and counsellors are all available if you need to talk.
Appreciate alone time. It can be hard to find privacy at school. Times to relax or study quietly are healthy.
Immerse yourself. Find classes and projects that get you excited.
Connect with people back home. Catch up regularly and plan some visits. Your friends and family miss you too!
Reminisce. Tell people what it’s like in your hometown and ask about their experiences.

Shiv is a graduate student at St. Clair College studying international business.

More Tips from Students

Renee A., a student at the College of North Atlantic in St. John’s, Newfoundland, says, “I think an important part of getting over home- sickness is to acknowledge your feelings.”

Jasvir K., a student at St. Clair College in Windsor, Ontario, says, “I plan a trip back home every opportunity I get. I am in touch with all of my friends back home, and I have made a lot of new ones at school.”

Miguel M., a fourth-year student at Memorial University in St. John’s, says, “I got involved as much as I could. During my fi rst year at the university, whatever free time I got, I volunteered and participated in events. I ended up making a lot of friends. Initially, I didn’t have time to feel home- sick, and later on, I had people around for support.”