Studying abroad is an adventure—new country, new friends, new life. But somewhere between your first international meal and your fifth Zoom class, it hits you—you miss home.
Homesickness is real, and trust us, you’re not the only one feeling it. Even the most adventurous students feel it at some point. Missing your parents, your besties, your dog, your favorite food, or just the vibe of home is totally okay.
This blog is your comfort blanket—a guide to help you cope with homesickness without feeling guilty or lost. 💛
What is Homesickness?
Homesickness is more than just missing people. It’s a feeling of emotional discomfort when you’re away from everything familiar—family, language, routines, food, and culture. It can show up as:
- Feeling anxious or lonely
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Lack of motivation
- Constantly checking time zones to see when you can call home
But guess what? It’s temporary and you can manage it in healthy ways.
Let’s Normalize It
First, don’t beat yourself up. Missing home doesn’t mean you’re weak or ungrateful. You’ve stepped out of your comfort zone, and that takes courage. It’s normal to feel out of place in a new environment, especially in the first few weeks or months.
Everyone deals with it differently, but you’re not alone. Even students who seem super chill on Instagram are probably missing home-cooked food and their bedroom fairy lights.
8 Practical Ways to Cope with Homesickness
1. Stay Connected (But Not Glued to Your Phone) 📱
Talk to your loved ones regularly through video calls, voice notes, or texts. But don’t spend all your time online. If you’re always thinking about home, you’re not living your “abroad” life to the fullest.
⏳ Tip: Schedule calls with family or friends a few times a week. Stick to it, but don’t overdo it.
2. Create a “Home Vibe” in Your Room 🪴
Turn your dorm or apartment into your mini-haven. Decorate it with pictures, posters, soft lights, or even that special pillow you carried from home.
Pro tip: Light a scented candle or spray a fragrance that reminds you of home (lavender, vanilla, or even chai!).
3. Keep a Routine 📅
When you’re in a new country, your routine is all over the place. That adds to the stress. Having a basic daily schedule brings stability and helps your mind adjust faster.
🧘♀️ Morning Walk? Breakfast by 9 AM? Study hours? Netflix break at 8? Make a plan.
4. Explore Like a Local 🗺️
Instead of just being a student, start being a traveler. Explore the town, visit cafés, try the local food, join events, or get lost on purpose (safely, of course). The more you feel part of the new culture, the less homesick you’ll feel.
📸 Take photos, vlog, or journal your experiences!
5. Eat Familiar Food 🍜
Food is comfort. Look for Indian/Desi grocery stores or restaurants in your area. Cook simple meals like Maggi, dal-rice, or parathas when you’re feeling down.
👩🍳 Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, YouTube will save your soul.
6. Talk About It 🗣️
Don’t bottle it up. Talk to your roommates, friends, or even a counselor if needed. Chances are, they’re also feeling the same and will appreciate the honesty.
💌 Remember: Vulnerability connects people.
7. Stay Active 🏃♀️
Exercise releases happy hormones (endorphins), which help reduce stress. You don’t need to hit the gym—go for a walk, dance in your room, or join a yoga club.
🎶 Create a mood-lifting playlist and move your body.
8. Give Yourself Time ⏰
Adjusting to a new country and culture doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself. Every week will feel a bit easier than the last.
🌱 Growth is silent but powerful.
You’re Not Alone: Stories from Other Students
“In my first month in Canada, I cried while eating dinner alone. Now, I host potlucks every weekend with friends from 5 different countries!”
— Aditi, MBA student
“What helped me the most in Germany was joining a student dance group. We vibed over Bollywood songs, and I felt at home again.”
— Rahul, Engineering student
Reading others’ journeys can remind you that homesickness is just one chapter in your beautiful international story.
Final Words: You Got This!
Homesickness might seem like a mountain right now, but you’re already halfway up. Keep going, take it one day at a time, and remember that you’re growing in ways you can’t even see yet.
New friends, new flavors, new opportunities—all this magic is waiting for you.
And when in doubt, call mom. She always knows what to say. 💖
📣 Join the Unimayt Study Abroad Community
Don’t face this alone—connect with fellow students who are going through the same journey. From motivation to memes, we’ve got it all:
🌐 Explore resources, tips, and guides on: unimayt.com
💬 Join our WhatsApp group here: Click to Join WhatsApp Community
Let’s make your abroad experience a little more fun and a lot more connected.
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