A Psychologist Recommends 2 Approaches to Cope With Homesickness

As autumn arrives, many of us find ourselves on the cusp of a new adventure. This time represents more than just a change in the weather – it signifies a significant milestone in the lives of many individuals. It may mark the beginning of an exciting journey through college, the pursuit of a career in a new location, or the start of a fresh chapter in an unknown environment. However, this transition often brings with it a mixture of emotions, one of which is homesickness.

Homesickness is a complex emotion that intertwines yearning, love, and loss. It can quietly sneak up on you when you miss the Sunday dinners with your family, long for the comforting presence of your pet, or simply yearn for the familiar sights and sounds of your hometown.

Coping with homesickness can be a challenge, but there are effective strategies to help manage these emotions and adjust to your new surroundings. It is important to recognize that homesickness is a natural response to change and reflects your deep connections to your home and loved ones.

Here are two approaches to deal with homesickness and navigate this transitional phase while embracing the present.

1. Establish a Supportive Social Network

When you find yourself in a new environment away from the comforts of home, building new relationships and social connections can be a powerful tool in alleviating homesickness.

A study published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence suggests that emotional support from friends and family significantly affects the mental health of young adults during their transition to college. Emotional support from friends, in particular, is a crucial aspect of positive adjustment.

However, creating a new network goes beyond making new friends. It involves immersing yourself in the local culture and community. Here are a few suggestions:

• Consider joining clubs or organizations that align with your interests, whether it be a book club, a sports team, or a local charity. These groups provide an excellent platform for meeting like-minded individuals and forming meaningful connections. Participating in these activities also allows you to engage with locals and gain insight into their way of life, which can be both enlightening and comforting.
• Stay connected with your religious customs if they are part of your life. Research indicates that individuals who maintain their religious or faith-based practices tend to experience a decrease in homesickness when transitioning to a new environment. Whether it is finding a place for worship or meditation in your new location or connecting with friends who share your beliefs, these steps can be valuable in your adjustment process.

2. Create Familiarity in Your New Surroundings

Making the transition to a new environment can be challenging, but there are ways to make it smoother. One way is to incorporate elements of your old home into your new space, such as personalizing your living area with cherished items like photographs or keepsakes.

Maintaining familiar routines, such as your workout, bedtime, and relaxation routines, can help make the new environment feel less unfamiliar. Cooking your favorite meals can also be therapeutic and comforting. It is an opportunity to share your culture with new friends, and you might even consider organizing a potluck dinner where everyone contributes their favorite local dish.

While it is important to maintain some familiar routines, it is equally important to be open to establishing new ones that help you adapt to and enjoy your new surroundings.

The authors of a study on homesickness and college adjustment emphasize the importance of “encouraging a connection with home that doesn’t overshadow the opportunity to form new friendships at school.”

So, do not hesitate to engage in traditions that align with the new season and culture. They can offer you comfort and joy while grounding you in the present. Whether it is carving pumpkins, baking your favorite autumn treats, or simply taking leisurely walks amidst the vibrant foliage, these activities can anchor you in the moment and create fresh, cherished memories. Remember that each new relationship you form is a step towards making this unfamiliar place feel a little more like home.

Conclusion

Feeling homesick is a common experience when transitioning to a new place. It is important to be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust. If homesickness persists and begins to interfere with your daily life, consider seeking support from a counselor or therapist who can provide guidance and coping strategies tailored to your specific situation.