Years of anticipation have led up to this. You picked out the perfect dorm decor, you organized your favorite high school photos, you texted and video chatted with your roommate anxiously awaiting meeting in person, and, of course, you got ready to say goodbye to your friends and family.
Going off to college is an enormous milestone; however, the excitement surrounding this transition can also be accompanied by feelings of loss associated with leaving home. If you find yourself feeling down after watching your parents pull away post move-in day, you are not alone. In fact, you are in good company. A “2023 Transition to College Survey by CollegeData.com found that over half of college students experience homesickness.
What Are Signs Of Homesickness?
Homesickness can show up in not just emotional ways, but also in physical symptoms. Some common of homesickness signs include:
Emotional Signs Of Homesickness
- Feeling sad, lonely, or isolated
- Longing or yearning for home, family, or familiar places
- Trouble enjoying new surroundings or activities
- Irritability, mood swings, or feeling easily frustrated
- Anxiety or worry, especially about being away from loved ones
- Difficulty focusing or feeling “distracted” by thoughts of home
Physical Signs Of Homesickness
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little)
- Stomachaches or nausea
- Headaches or migraines headaches
- Anxiety (feeling anxious, nervous or panicky)
- Low energy or fatigue
- Restlessness
Therefore, if you are feeling the homesick blues, here are 8 things you can try that may help you feel a bit more connected as you settle into your new home away from home:
1. Keep Your Door Open
Keep your door open when you are in your dorm room and hanging out. This sends the message to neighbors that you are looking to meet others—and if your dorm is comprised of all freshmen, they are likely looking to meet new friends, too.
2. Find A Community On Campus
Check out your school’s list of student activities and groups. Most colleges and universities have clubs for every interest imaginable: from religion, to politics, movies, music, dance, art, fraternities, sororities, etc. If you have an interest, considering joining a group with other like-minded students.
3. Communicate With Family
Keep your family updated about how you are you doing, but also try practicing your independence. Of course, tell your family if something noteworthy happened in your day, but consider beginning to use your peer community for social support.
4. Plan Trips To Visit Family & Friends
Plan trips home and visits with your family, and schedule them in advance. This way, you know exactly when you will be able to see your family and friends next, which will allow you some freedom to explore your new college home in the meantime.
5. Grant Yourself Grace
It is OK to take a day or two to be sad. That said, if you find yourself struggling to go to classes or social activities, consider seeking mental health services. Your college counseling center is a wonderful resource—they could connect you with a counselor onsite or a therapist in the community.
6. Talk With Someone About Your Feelings
If you’re feeling homesick, don’t keep your feelings bottled up because it could make the situation worse when talking to a counselor, friend or family member can give you a safe space to express yourself. You don’t need to feel alone at college when you’re experiencing homesickness.
7. Establish A Routine
Establishing a daily or weekly routine can make a huge difference when you’re adjusting to a college and feeling homesick. Setting study, exercise, and times for self-care can help you relax because it brings structure and familiarity to your day to reduce any uncertainty. Practicing mindfulness is also a great stress reliever because it allows your mind and body to slow down and be present in the moment.
8. Explore The Area Around Your College
Exploring the area around your college is a great way to start connecting with your new home away from home. Spend time walking around the campus, visit nearby cafes, restaurants, shops, parks, and museums to find places you’ll enjoy and get to know your area. While exploring the local area, you may also meet new people, which can help you feel more connected and adjust to college easier.
Counseling For College Students At Georgetown Psychology
Prioritizing your mental health is important so you can thrive in college and your personal life. Meeting with a counselor can give you tools and strategies to help ease feelings of homesickness.
For more information about our counseling services or to schedule a telehealth or an in-person session in DC, Bethesda, Alexandria, or McLean, please contact Sarah Smathers, our Client Services Specialist, at sarah@georgetownpsychology.com or (301) 652-5550.
