How To Deal With Homesickness

“Child, you’re a grown up now. It’s time to leave the nest”. Is your dad too repeating the statement given above quite often these days? Do not be surprised as most students go through this stage soon after they complete school. And what for are you feeling sad and left out? After all, wasn't that what you always wanted to have — independence, freedom and the right to do anything? There you go, you have the entire world at your feet now. Time to move out and explore new challenges and adventures! Though you are overtly happy and joyous at the prospect of ruling your life and taking your own decisions, a nerve deep in your heart weeps a silent tear. Reason? Your time to spend childhood under your mom’s apron is nearing an end. Result? You are already getting negative feelings in the form of homesickness. And when it’s a new state or, probably, a nation, these emotions are simply beyond your control. Different people to live with, different culture to accept, and a different language to learn. But with some useful and simple ways, you can lessen the pangs of loneliness and enjoy your independence.

 

 

The best advantage of living in a foreign country is to visit the nearby sites and appreciate the surroundings. Learn about the local culture by taking a trip to the museums and local villages. Do not forget to pay a visit to those gorgeous and famous tourist attractions that the place is renowned for. After all, you need to get that feel that you actually are at the place. Travel, travel, and travel! It’ll keep you engaged for quite a long time, at least away from the fears of homesickness.

 

Finding it difficult to find someone belonging to your village or city? Forget city, you may not even be able to find a single guy belonging to your country. Even if you are fortunate enough to hit upon one, you’re not sure whether you can befriend him or not. Therefore, it’s best to interact with others at your workplace, in your college, or study abroad program, rather than wasting time in finding a friend from your city/country. This way, you’ll get to know about the locals and their culture. And you never know, this person might end up becoming a dear friend of yours. Or you may even land up at his house for a cup of coffee or dinner. Finding a home away from home in a foreign land is always loving and comforting.

 

One of the best ways to stay away from homesickness and keep yourself busy in a new town is to join a gym, club, class, or religious organization. Finding people sharing similar hometowns will give you a homely experience. Participate in events and activities related to work or college. If communicating in the concerned foreign language is a problem, take a language class.

 

In today’s high-tech savvy world, emails, chatting, and calling have become the easiest ways to communicate with loved ones anywhere across the globe. Try sending a letter to your parents and see the instant response in the same manner. You can send birthday cards, holiday cards, and handwritten notes for personalized feelings. Further, receiving letters at an address abroad give you vibes of living at your own home. But for that, do not forget to give your new address to your family and friends.

 

Controlling your feelings and keeping them within will only worsen the situation. While it is not apt to let your emotions out every time, lightening yourself once in a while is good. Have a good cry and let your sentiments flow out. Put on some music to set the right mood reminding you of your home.

 

Try out these ways of combating homesickness and do not leave out any opportunity to cherish such a wonderful experience of exploring a foreign country. Bid goodbye to homesickness!