10 Ways to Beat Homesickness Whilst Studying Abroad

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You are likely living or studying abroad with people who are also living abroad in the exact same scenario and feeling the exact same emotions as you are. Expressing how you’re feeling is always better than allowing emotions to bottle up inside, especially when you have the opportunity to chat with someone who will understand exactly what you’re going through.

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Allow yourself to settle into a productive routine where you have set study plans for each day of the week. Writing it down in a planner is always helpful, as you can visually see what you need to get done instead of pushing it under the rug every day. Joining a study group or studying with a fellow classmate can also hold you accountable and have someone there to connect with (and share the misery with). Lastly, a change of scenery when it comes to study spots can make the world of a difference in your productivity.

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A lot of people swear by writing things down to relieve stress. If you have an issue or feeling that you want to get out (but don’t necessarily want to express to someone else) write it down in a journal, and you may be surprised how much better you feel. Making lists and checking off tasks as you do them is another satisfying way that writing things down can help anxiety and stress.

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Have you ever regretted doing a workout or going for a run once it’s completed? Okay, maybe during it, but most definitely not after. Exercising is not only good for your physical health, but also massively for your mental health. A quick walk outside between studying is sometimes all it takes to brighten your mood and get you back on track.

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You may be half way across the world, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep a little bit of home with you wherever you go. Make your mom’s famous pasta recipe, go for brunch with your friends on Sundays, take up your favorite hobby or join a club at school. Do all of the things that you loved to do at home in order to make a new place feel more homey.

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The best part about studying abroad is, duh, that there are SO many new places around you to explore! A great way to take your mind off being homesick is to plan a trip to a new destination and count down the days until you leave. It always helps to have something to look forward to, especially when you know a vacation is on the horizon.

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Last, but definitely not least, practicing self-care is the most important thing you could possibly do (and this is a general life rule). Balancing your studies, social life and eating healthily with trying to travel and make the most of your study destination is easier said than done, and is especially difficult if you’re not used to doing it all on your own. First and foremost, you have to take time for yourself, treat your body right, and accept that you may need to take a break once and a while. Whether that’s staying in on a Saturday night, making yourself a cooked breakfast in the mornings, or buying that sweater you had your eye on, put yourself in the number one spot always.

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