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Homesickness is common in your initial months at uni, and affects everyone differently. We’re here to help you understand the symptoms of homesickness, whether you’re anticipating your move to uni or already living on campus, and how you can overcome it as you get used to university life.
Immersing yourself in your new city, maintaining a routine and taking advantage of the help that’s available are key to helping those homesick feelings slowly fall away. Our Student Support Hub has all the tools and resources you need to settle into your new home in Norwich.
What are the symptoms of homesickness?
When you’re struggling with homesickness, you might find that you suffer with one or more of the following symptoms:
Feeling overwhelmed
Lack of sleep
Poor appetite
Low self-esteem
Sense of isolation or feeling withdrawn
Headaches or nauseousness
If your homesickness symptoms feel unmanageable, or are worsening, always consider talking to a doctor or other professional who can help you. There’s plenty of support available as part of university life, too. We offer wellbeing services from within your faculty, and as part of your Residential Life team, meaning you’re supported from both your course, and your accommodation. Our Residential Life advisers are available from 6pm-7am, making sure there‘s always a friendly face on hand when you’re feeling overwhelmed or homesick. No matter what time of day you want to talk, support is always available, whether that’s via one-to-one appointments, confidential emails, video calls or telephone contact.
How do I deal with homesickness?
Everyone has to tackle homesickness in their own way, but there are many methods for overcoming it with the support of the people around you. Reece Luetchford, fourth year Engineering, recommends getting involved in university life:
“An aspect of homesickness I experienced in my first year of uni was missing my dog, Opie. Taking part in the weekly dog walks around the lake with the Active Campus programme really helped me overcome this, especially in the first few weeks away from home. I’d definitely recommend getting involved with the dog walks at UEA if you’re a student that’s experiencing homesickness, as it helps with feeling more at-home on campus.”
Should I go home if I feel homesick?
If you feel having some time at home will be helpful, please do consider a visit. However, it’s important to make time for new experiences and give yourself the opportunity to form connections during your time at university.
How long does homesickness last?
There is no concrete answer to this, really. We all process homesickness differently, and so you can’t put a timeframe on how long it might last. Try to remember that many, many students around you and around the world are in the same position, and work on coming out of your comfort zone a little more each day. Building activities and experiences you enjoy into each day will help your university life feel like home.
Getting support from your university
From student buddies to wellbeing support within your chosen course, there are multiple ways you can begin to overcome homesickness. Take things day by day, and be kind to yourself. Remember, there’s always a friendly face waiting to talk when you need to.
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