Top tips on how to beat student homesickness

Moving away from home is exciting, but as you embark on your big uni adventure it’s likely you’ll encounter feelings of homesickness at some point. 

You might be overcome with these feelings during first semester, as you navigate life in your new city; equally, after going home for the summer between uni years, you might come back and feel a bit flat after spending time back home. It can strike at any time, can be mild or severe, but one thing is certain: you are not alone.

Here, we take a look at some top tips on how to deal with feeling homesick as a student. Just remember: you’ve got this!

Let yourself feel homesick

It may sound counterintuitive, but actually acknowledging how you feel is super important. It’s totally normal to feel homesick when you first move to uni. Don’t make yourself feel worse by beating yourself up for feeling something that most students have experienced! Give yourself time to validate your emotions, have a little cry and then give your flatmates a shout - does anybody fancy a game night or boxset marathon?

Make your room feel like home

Moving into unfamiliar surroundings is always going to be hard, especially as you settle into life at uni. So why not make it easier for you to adjust by packing some home comforts. Think polaroids of friends, a “good luck at uni” card from a family member or that teddy bear (or what’s left of it) from when you were little – anything that will help turn your empty room into a home away from home!

Schedule regular catch-ups

Whether it’s a late night WhatsApp message, phone call or even a postcard, keeping in touch with your loved ones at home can help you feel that little bit less alone in those first few weeks. Too much communication can make you feel the distance even more however, so scheduling in regular catch-ups can be a great way to find that balance. For example, let your parents know you’ll be calling after uni on a Friday – you’ll have something to look forward to once all of your lectures are over!

Get socialising

It can be overwhelming surrounding yourself with so many new people at uni or in your student accommodation, especially if you’re not an extrovert. Yet, making plans – big or small – will help you gradually adjust to student life and manage feelings of loneliness. You could grab a coffee in between lectures with your coursemates, organise a group study session in the library or sit in and belt out your favourite Taylor songs with your fellow ‘Swifty society’ members. You could even check out what events your accommodation may be hosting. Whatever you do, make the most of these moments – your uni years aren’t forever!

Explore extracurricular activities

Keeping yourself busy can help you avoid fixating on that homesick feeling. For instance, trying out that extracurricular activity that piqued your interest during freshers’ week can help you focus on living in the moment rather than what you’re missing at home. What about getting a part-time job as well? This way you can earn some extra cash AND experience a much-needed change of scenery, plus you may find friends for life in your colleagues.

Reach out for help

Remember, feeling homesick is completely normal! That being said, you should never suffer in silence. Whether you speak to your uni tutor who can help signpost you to the appropriate services or call somebody you trust, be sure to reach out if you need help.

Here at Student Roost, our friendly property teams are onsite 24/7. Plus, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction for specific help concerning your mental health and wellbeing. Check out our wellbeing hub for further support. We've got you.