Study Abroad: Coping with Homesickness
Words and photos by Anika Woelffer, our Jetsetter Journalist who is studying abroad in Sorrento, Italy, during Spring semester 2024.
Feeling homesick while studying abroad is practically impossible to avoid, but thankfully there's a lot you can do to help as well as “prevent” it.
As I write, I'm starting my 4th week abroad and I'm past the point of it feeling like a vacation. Reality has settled in and although I miss home, it's important to keep a positive mindset and remember that it's only four short months of your life. The biggest thing that has been helping me is thinking with that mindset and making a good group of friends. I've been trying to keep myself busy by planning trips, exploring Sorrento, making meals with friends, and taking time for myself. It can be overwhelming living in a new country and meeting new friends, so having a positive mindset is crucial to making it a good experience.
Here’s a list of tips that can help you cope with homesickness and make the most out of your time studying abroad!
1. Stay connected.
Staying connected to friends and family back home is so important! The time difference may be challenging, but it’s nice to set time aside to talk to those who are most important to you. You've gone to start a new adventure in life, but everyone back home hasn't, so you have to put the effort in to make those relationships continue.
This is one view from a 6-mile hike I did with my program!
2. Explore!
You decided to study abroad for a reason and it would be silly if you didn't get to know the town or city you're staying in. Sure it's fun to travel on the weekends, but don't neglect your home base. This will also keep you occupied and active during the weeks when you're not traveling.
3. Make new friends.
I know this may sound obvious but studying abroad can feel very isolating at times. It's important to put yourself out there in the first few weeks to find a good group of people. Everyone else is looking to make friends too, so you are all in the same boat. Don't forget that it's okay to switch friend groups if it's not working out. You should also join clubs and do activities you enjoy to find some people who also enjoy them.
Some friends I’ve made and us on our recent trip to Venice, Italy!
4. Create a routine.
The weekends can be really crazy and tiring if you are traveling a lot, so it's important to create a routine throughout the week. This will help keep you on track with schoolwork and will provide you with structure and stability. It can also make it feel like you're more at home if you have a routine instead of constant chaos.
5. Practice self-care.
Your emotional and mental well-being should be your top priority when studying abroad. You will experience many things that can be overwhelming and draining. Setting some time aside each day/week for yourself can benefit your mental health. Some of my suggestions are reading, doing a face mask, having a movie night by yourself, going on a walk, and journaling. You can also meditate or do yoga to lessen your stress and anxiety.
6. Seek support.
You shouldn't have to struggle in the dark. Reaching out to a guidance counselor or advisor is never a bad idea. They are there to help you through these changes and it gives you someone to talk to. Remember it's okay to ask for help, and they are there for a reason.
A note from ASA: If you are experiencing homesickness, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us or your site director. That’s what we’re here for.
Also, ASA includes a paid subscription to mindhamok, our mental health services partner, for every semester and summer program participant. mindhamok is a 24-7 service designed to support study abroad students’ mental, physical and social wellbeing throughout their journey - both when it’s good and not so good. mindhamok’s curated online and live resources give ASA students the tools to succeed throughout their term abroad and on to the rest of their lives.
ASA students can use mindhamok to:
Request an appointment with a coach/therapist.
Live chat with a coach/therapist about concerns such as roommate issues, relationships, etc.
Discuss homesickness, culture shock, or adjustment concerns.
Access online Gen Z-centered content to help them understand common study abroad topics, such as: culture shock; how to maintain physical wellbeing while overseas; equity, diversity and inclusion as a study abroad student; networking events; how to switch off and enjoy experiences without social media; relationships while abroad; safe socializing; and a host of other important topics.