Moving away from home to study abroad can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with an unexpected companion: homesickness. For international students living in shared housing, this feeling can be particularly challenging. However, with the right strategies, you can create a comforting environment and overcome homesickness.
Here are five effective tips to help you deal with homesickness and make your shared housing feel like a home away from home.
1. Personalize Your Space
One of the most effective ways to combat homesickness is to create a familiar and comforting environment in your new living space. Even in shared housing, you can make your personal area feel more like home:
- Bring photos of family, friends, and pets to display in your room
- Use familiar bedding or blankets from home
- Add personal touches like posters, artwork, or decorations that reflect your personality and culture
Research shows that familiar objects can provide a sense of continuity and comfort in new environments[1]. By surrounding yourself with reminders of home, you can create a personal sanctuary within your shared living space.
2. Establish a Routine
Creating a daily routine can help you feel more grounded and less disoriented in your new environment. A study on international students in China found that establishing routines was an effective coping strategy for homesickness. Consider:
- Setting regular meal times, preferably with roommates to foster a sense of community
- Scheduling study sessions at consistent times and locations
- Incorporating familiar activities from home into your new routine, such as a weekly movie night or cooking a favorite dish
By creating structure in your day, you can reduce feelings of uncertainty and build a sense of normalcy in your new home.
3. Connect with Others
Building a support network is crucial in combating homesickness. In shared housing, you have a unique opportunity to form connections with people from diverse backgrounds:
- Organize group activities with your housemates, such as game nights or potluck dinners
- Join student clubs or organizations related to your interests or culture
- Participate in campus events to meet other international students
Research indicates that social support is a significant factor in reducing homesickness among international students. By forming new relationships, you can create a sense of belonging in your new environment.
4. Maintain Connections with Home
While it's important to immerse yourself in your new surroundings, maintaining connections with home can provide comfort and support:
- Schedule regular video calls with family and friends
- Share your experiences through social media or a blog
- Create care packages with your favorite items from home
However, it's crucial to strike a balance. Excessive communication with home can sometimes exacerbate homesickness. Aim for quality over quantity in your interactions with loved ones back home.
5. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential in managing homesickness:
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to manage stress
- Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation
A study on homesickness among college students found that mindfulness-based interventions were effective in reducing homesickness symptoms. By focusing on the present moment and taking care of yourself, you can better manage feelings of homesickness.
Remember, experiencing homesickness is a normal part of the international student experience. It's a sign that you have loving relationships and a sense of belonging to your home culture. By implementing these strategies and giving yourself time to adjust, you can create a comfortable and welcoming environment in your shared housing.
If you find that your homesickness persists or begins to affect your daily life and studies, don't hesitate to seek support. Many universities offer counseling services specifically for international students. Remember, you're not alone in this experience, and there are resources available to help you thrive in your new home away from home.
