Embarking on an international journey, whether for teaching, studying, interning, volunteering, or extended travel, presents a complex undertaking. While the experience can be exhilarating, refreshing, and enlightening, it also brings numerous daunting challenges beyond the mere adjustment to a culture with a late dinner tradition.

Homesickness poses a significant hurdle for individuals abroad, particularly those encountering their first overseas living experience. Go Overseas aims to provide insight into what homesickness entails and effective strategies to cope with it. It is crucial to overcome homesickness and fully embrace the travel experience without allowing it to hinder your enjoyment.

Before discussing how to manage homesickness while studying abroad, let’s look at what homesickness is. 

What is Homesickness?

Homesickness refers to the emotional state characterised by feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress that arise when individuals are separated from the people and environments they are accustomed to.

Homesickness can stem from various factors, including challenges in adapting to a new environment, experiencing a sense of isolation or disconnection from familiar support networks, struggling with understanding a new culture, language, or environment, feeling a perceived loss of control over one’s surroundings, encountering culture shock, and the list continues.

Although each person will feel homesickness differently, some frequent symptoms include the following:

• Deep emotional longings for the people, places, and comfort of one’s home environment are sometimes experienced by people.

• Anxiety and tension can be brought on by homesickness, which frequently results from the unpredictability and strangeness of the new environment.

• Homesick people may retreat from social situations because they feel alienated or unable to make new friends in their new surroundings.

• Being homesick can make it difficult to concentrate and focus, making it challenging to participate fully in academic or professional tasks.

• Changes in eating patterns, such as lack of appetite or binge eating, might be a sign of mental discomfort and homesickness.

• Homesickness can interfere with regular sleep cycles, making it harder to fall asleep or cause nighttime awakenings regularly.

• Some people may feel physically unwell, such as headaches, stomachaches, weariness, or general uneasiness.

• Persistent thoughts and talks about home.

• Repeated viewing of images or videos.

• Turning to familiar objects for solace.

Pro Tips to Handle Homesickness while Studying Abroad

1. Do not miss the orientation week

Before starting the academic session, universities conduct an orientation program typically a week or 10 days in advance. This orientation serves as an opportunity for students to acquaint themselves with the campus, as they are guided through key locations and provided information about relevant contacts for various resources and services available at the university.

2. Make new friends

Occasionally, homesickness extends beyond missing people and encompasses a longing for cherished places we enjoy visiting. Each of us has a particular spot in our cities that holds significance, such as a coffee shop, library, or a serene natural setting like a forest or beach. Although the initial experience of being in a foreign country can be overwhelming, it is essential to consider the multitude of places waiting to be discovered. Embrace the excitement of making new friends, a new social life, exploring new cuisines and engaging in different activities in this novel environment!

3. Make a Daily Routine

Crafting a daily routine can be a valuable tool in navigating the waves of culture shock. By staying active and productive, you can minimise loneliness and homesickness. For instance, if you have a customary morning ritual of a refreshing walk and a cup of coffee, seek out a nearby park to continue this cherished routine. 

Similarly, if practicing yoga before bed was a comforting habit in your previous abode, allocate time to continue this practice in your new surroundings. Incorporating familiar activities into your daily schedule lets you gently ease your transition to the unfamiliar environment.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid overwhelming yourself or suppressing your emotions. While staying engaged is beneficial, acknowledging and processing your feelings is equally important. Once you have done so, return to embracing your newfound routine and continue adapting to the exciting changes around you.

4. Learn new things

Studies have indicated that absent-mindedness often accompanies homesickness. Engaging in daily learning activities can help keep your mind active and focused to combat this. 

This is an opportune moment to embark on new learning endeavours, such as mastering a new language, discovering the art of preparing your host nation’s beloved dishes, or enrolling in that yoga, martial arts, or diving course that caught your attention at the local coffee shop. 

Moreover, the more you can connect your learning experiences to the culture of your host country, the richer your immersion in this vibrant culture will be. Embrace the opportunity to fully immerse yourself and relish the wonders of this new cultural journey!

5. Make travel plans

One of the most exciting aspects of studying abroad is the abundance of new places waiting to be explored. A fantastic strategy to distract yourself from homesickness is to plan a trip to a novel destination and eagerly anticipate the adventure. 

Having something to look forward to, especially when a vacation is just around the corner, can be incredibly up-lifting. The anticipation of exploring new landscapes, immersing yourself in different cultures, and creating unforgettable memories can greatly alleviate homesickness and ignite excitement and wanderlust. 

6. Exercise Regularly

Exercise serves as a vital tool for coping with homesickness. Not only does it help combat homesickness directly, but it also contributes to maintaining good health and fitness. At the same time, abroad—both of which are crucial for individuals feeling a bit down. Conversely, adopting a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits can lead to lethargy and negatively impact mood, exacerbating the existing feelings.

While it may take some time to acclimate to your new environment, once you become familiar with the surroundings, developing a plan incorporating daily exercise and fresh air is advisable. 

Whether engaging in regular runs, opting for cycling as your mode of transportation to class, or simply prioritising walking whenever possible, strive to establish healthy habits. Not only will your body benefit from increased activity, but the release of endorphins during exercise is biologically known to boost mood and make you feel better.

7. Self Care

Practicing self-care is an essential aspect of life that should not be overlooked. It can be challenging to balance your academic pursuits, social interactions, healthy diet, and exploring new places while studying, especially if you’re not accustomed to managing everything independently.

However, it is crucial to prioritise taking care of yourself above all else. This involves dedicating time to personal well-being, nurturing your body, and acknowledging the occasional need for rest. Whether it means staying in on a Saturday night, indulging in a homemade breakfast, or treating yourself to something you’ve been eyeing, always prioritise your needs and happiness.

8. Embrace new opportunities

Homesickness frequently gives rise to feelings of monotony and distraction. To counteract these emotions, it is crucial to pursue daily opportunities for learning proactively. 

Engaging in new and stimulating activities can help keep your mind active and focused. Embrace the idea of acquiring a new hobby, such as learning a new language or trying out a new sport. 

If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, contemplate enrolling in cooking classes or acquiring skills in traditional crafts or activities. By immersing yourself in novel experiences and expanding your knowledge, you can make the most of your time abroad while overcoming homesickness.

9. Self Realisation 

During moments of intense homesickness, particularly on significant occasions such as birthdays or family weddings that you cannot be present for, here is a mental exercise to engage in. Pose the following questions to yourself:

1. What are the reasons I find myself away from home? 
2. What are my aspirations and long-term goals? 
3. How will this learning or work experience contribute to my personal growth and empowerment? 
4. In what ways will I become more empowered upon successfully completing this program? 
5. How can I make the most out of this incredible opportunity? 

By reflecting on these questions, you can redirect your focus towards the purpose behind your current situation, your aspirations, the potential for personal development, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Final Thoughts

Managing homesickness while studying abroad can be a challenging but conquerable task for Indian students. By implementing the tips and strategies discussed in this blog, you can navigate the waves of homesickness and make the most of your international academic experience.

Remember to stay connected with your loved ones back home through regular communication channels. Embrace the opportunity to build a support network of fellow students and engage in activities that help you immerse yourself in the new culture. Take care of your physical and mental well-being by establishing routines, pursuing hobbies, and seeking support from university services or counselling resources.

Frequently Asked Questions