Navigating homesickness when moving abroad

No one really prepares you for how homesickness can be. In all the excitement and adrenaline rush of moving and settling down in a new place, we forget to soak in and enjoy every bit of the present while we are with family.

It doesn’t always hit the moment you land. Sometimes it creeps in weeks later, when the excitement fades, classes become routine, and you realise that life back home is continuing without you. It’s said that these years abroad, being independent, learning through life are the “best years of your life”. While it is true, it's also true that homesickness is common through this journey, and if you are feeling it, you are not weak. You’re human, and it's okay to not be okay.

One of the most effective ways to cope with homesickness is by creating familiarity within your new home, your accommodation abroad. Small additions can make surprising changes to the way you feel, your room is your safe space. Decorating your room that reflects your personality. I personally like hanging photos of my favourite memories or family members, that makes me feel happy to look at them. Cooking your comfort food, listening to your favourite music that reminds you of family, warm lighting, or even sleeping with something you brought from home can provide emotional reassurance. Comfort is something you can slowly rebuild wherever you are.

Staying in touch with family and friends back home is important. Setting times to call or message allows you to stay emotionally connected without preventing you from fully engaging in your new surroundings. Balance is key, I have a routine of when I talk to my parents during the day and it helps me stay connected while also getting involved in other work that I have to do which keeps me busy and helps me adapt to change. It's okay to miss family and call them when you feel like it for your comfort.

One thing I learned slowly while settling in was that it’s okay to feel lonely sometimes, and not rush to escape it. Moving abroad can feel isolating, and forcing yourself to socialise before you’re ready can feel exhausting. Giving yourself time to sit with the change helps you to soak into your surroundings. What also helped me a lot was building a simple routine like cooking, sleep, classes, or even just walks. Having predictable days creates a sense of stability. Once your routine settles, the weight of homesickness feels a little easier to carry, knowing you have your life in place can make you feel more put together.

Homesickness doesn't always go away, but you get better at carrying it. Slowly, the unfamiliar becomes routine, and the routine becomes comfortable. You’ll still have days where you miss the noise of your kitchen back home, but you’ll also have days where you feel entirely at peace in your new space. Growth isn't always comfortable. Be patient with yourself, and go easy, you’re building a life, and that takes time.