Ways To Support a Homesick College Student

Homesickness is common among college students now more than ever. The internet and social media have created an unprecedented feeling of separation from traditional support systems, such as family and friends, which can result in loneliness.

If a student seems unusually sad or quiet during their time at college, there could be many different reasons for this behavior. If you notice some of the following possible symptoms, try to talk about how they’re feeling. There are several ways to support a homesick college student as they go out into the world.

Encourage Them To Talk About Their Feelings

If you notice that your child is sad or lonely, encourage them to express their feelings. If they seem hesitant or reserved, take the initiative, and ask if everything’s okay. Letting them know that it’s alright to feel this way will let them open up more.

Don’t Dismiss Their Feelings

If students are feeling homesick, they’re likely struggling with emotions. These may include anger, sadness, guilt, anxiety, loneliness, and fear. This can lead to feelings of resentment or guilt. Acknowledging their reality will help them feel understood.

Stay in Touch

Homesickness gets worse when there’s a lack of connection with others. This means that staying in touch with family, friends, and mentors can help ease feelings of isolation. If your child has trouble reaching out to their support systems, encourage them to do so.

Encourage Social Interactions

As mentioned, a lack of social interaction exacerbates homesickness. Your child may avoid spending time with friends and roommates, and this can lead to feelings of loneliness. Remind them that it’s okay to ask for help. Friends may not know that they’re feeling sad or anxious if they don’t express these emotions.

Encourage Exercise

Physical activity can release endorphins, which help create feelings of happiness and reduce stress. It’s also a great way to connect with peers, as many college students participate in sports or fitness activities.

If your child is having trouble initiating exercise, then tell them to look into programs at their campus gym. They may be able to find some that’ll help them exercise with a group.

Remind Them To Maintain Routines

Routines can create feelings of stability and consistency. Remind your child to keep to their usual schedule as much as possible. This may include mealtimes, studying, relaxing, and exercising. If it’s the beginning of the semester, encourage them to explore campus so that they have a sense of place.

Send Care Packages

Giving care packages is a great way to show your child that you care. You can include simple things like snack foods, note cards, pictures of the family, their favorite candies or treats, and other comfort items. Alternatively, you can give them a school supply kit so that they always have everything they need for their studies.

A few places where you might send the care packages include dorm rooms, apartment mailrooms, sorority houses, fraternity houses, and university mail services. Contact the school to see where you should send packages.

In Conclusion

Loneliness is a common college student complaint that may result from homesickness. If you notice some possible symptoms, encourage your child to talk about their feelings and stay in touch with family, friends, and mentors.

Also, remind your child of the importance of social interactions and exercise. Tell them to maintain routines, even though this might be difficult at first. Additionally, you can remember that care packages are a great way to show your child that you’re thinking about them. These are just some of the many ways you can support a homesick college student while they’re away thinking about home.

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