Homesickness is an issue that affects young adults all over, happening when they move away from home for school or work in a different city. This can cause feelings of loneliness and anxiety and even physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue and stomach aches.
Sometimes the symptoms of being homesick can lead to mental health issues. There is help for those struggling with mental health problems such as counselors like Delia Arslan from H.o.p.e Psychotherapy in Burlington
“When someone is experiencing homesickness, it’s important to acknowledge their feelings without judgment. I would start by normalizing their experience, letting them know that homesickness is a natural and common response to being away from home. I would encourage them to express their emotions and talk about what they miss. Sometimes, simply having a safe space to talk can help them process their feelings” Delia said.
Photo taken by Ruth Prarthana
homesickness manifests feelings of longing for a familiar environment, family and friends. There are different degrees of how intense the feelings of being homesick from mild to more severe.
Home sickness is very common among college and university students with both domestic and international students. For international students moving to a different country the culture is radically different, and this culture shock can make the person miss their home.
“I try to make friends with people in my current environment, so I don’t continuously feel homesick”. Agay, 3rd Year Computer Science Student said
“I create a routine by going to the gym, focusing on my studies, and doing other activities to distract me from feeling homesick.” said Madham, 3rd Year General Health and Science Sheridan Student.
Stock video provided by Tima MiroMiroshnichenko
Within domestic students if they move an hour or two away from their home to a different city, they will most likely feel a mix of emotions such as excitement to be on their own but also more negative emotions such as anxiety or even regret.
The overwhelming feeling of being in a new environment and away from the familiar can lead to performance issues at work and school.
Overall homesickness affects a wide range of people from all over the world.