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Homesickness
Leaving home to attend college is both an exciting and
challenging event. For many students part of the challenge of college
is dealing with feelings of homesickness.
What is the best way to cope with homesickness?
The fact is there is no single approach that is best for everyone. However, there are several considerations that can be helpful in dealing with homesickness.
First, it is reassuring to know that homesickness is a normal and common response that is experienced to one degree or another by the majority of students who leave home for the first time. Even those who have spent time away from home previously are not immune from the discomforting feelings of missing family and friends, loneliness, self doubt, concentration problems and preoccupation with returning home which characterize homesickness. Second, understanding why these feelings develop can be helpful in dealing with them.
Commonly, home is a place where one feels accepted and secure. Support from parents, family and friends, familiarity with one's surroundings and confidence in one's ability to be successful and meet challenges all contribute to a sense of self assurance and security. However, when one leaves this supportive environment for one with few close personal relationships, new and unfamiliar surroundings and challenges which may tax one's abilities, confidence and self assurance tend to erode, feelings of insecurity evolve and the importance of close relationships with family and friends become more important. These responses are made even more intense when coupled with the fear of failure--something many students experience when faced with the rigors of college coursework.
Third, there are some basic strategies that have proven effective in moderating the effects of homesickness.
2. Get involved with other students, classes and student activities. The sooner you adapt to your new surroundings, the less intense will be your feelings of discomfort in missing home.
3. Call or write home but avoid getting into the habit of going home every weekend. This is especially important during the beginning of the school year when social groups are forming and on-campus relationships are developing.
4. Talk out your feelings with a friend or residence hall counselor. Just getting feelings off your chest can provide a new perspective and sense of relief.
5. If these feelings persist or become so intrusive as to impair your daily activities or class obligations, you may benefit from talking to a counselor with special training in helping students adjust to the college environment. You may make an appointment to see a counselor in the Counseling Center by stopping by the office in Hazen Hall, or by calling 585-395-2207.
Helpful Links
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www.campusblues.com - This site addresses issues of mental health and wellness of interest to college students.
