Ways to Cope with Homesickness at University

Many students face the feeling of homesickness at university – you’re not alone! Whether you’ve moved far away or you’re still close by, your feelings are valid and we want to help. Here are some of our top tips to combat that homesickness, so you can get out and enjoy your university experience!

Decorate your room with pictures of family and friends

A student working on a laptop on her bed

Sometimes all you need is the feeling of home. Just because you are moving somewhere different, that doesn’t mean you have to leave your memories behind. Bring some pictures of your family and friends to decorate your bedroom. They can also be great conversation starters too, so you can share stories from home with your flatmates.

Adding home comforts to your bedroom can make the world of difference. Reduce that feeling of change!

Phone home

Ringing home can benefit both parties. If you’re missing home, they’re probably missing you too! Sometimes a phone call is all it takes to make you feel better. You might even facetime your family for the evening so it feels like you’re still there!

Spend time with your friends

Three students on a sofa, two are laughing at something out of view, the other is looking at their phone

Sometimes distraction is the best solution and your university friends are in the same situation as you! Maybe play a board game together, cook together or have fun doing an activity you would normally do at home. Building a supportive friend group at university makes all the difference.

Grab a cuppa at Firstpoint

A group of students talking to staff whilst holding mugs of hot drinks

FirstPoint’s ‘Grab a Cuppa’ events are the perfect opportunity to talk away your homesickness. They can point you to effective support services, help you make friendships, give you a warm drink, and ultimately, find ways to combat your homesickness.

If you are also missing your best friend, we also have Therapy Dogs at some of our ‘Grab a Cuppa’ events if you need a cuddle. Sometimes all you need is a dog!

Ask for support

We understand that many people face homesickness at university. Please reach out to your Personal Academic Tutors, lecturers, FirstPoint and anyone else who you think can help. You never have to go through homesickness alone. We are here for you.