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0151 522 58002nd February 2023
By Mark Barrow
Starting a new uni year can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Homesickness is a common feeling among university students, leaving you feeling alone and disconnected from your peers. It’s totally normal to miss your family and the comfort of your home when you start university, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve got you covered, read on to find out the best things you can do when you’re feeling homesick during your time at university!
A great way to combat feeling homesick at uni is to get involved in activities on campus. Join a club, attend an event, or volunteer. All of these activities are great ways to meet new people and form new connections. There are lots of clubs and societies at the universities in Liverpool, including sports teams, cultural, political and academic clubs. Our blog on how to make friends at university is full of useful information and tips on how to join people with the same interests as you.
It’s important to stay in regular contact with your family and friends back home. Set aside time to talk with them on the phone or video chat and use social media to keep in touch and stay up to date on what’s happening there. Plan your visits back home a few weeks in advance, it’ll give you something to look forward to while leaving you time to get to know your new friends and surroundings.
It can be hard to create a feeling of home away from home, especially when you’re living in a shared house far from family and childhood friends. But, with a few simple tricks, you can make your room a comfortable and connected place that will help when you feel homesick at uni. Start by adding a few items from your family or friends – like a photo, a plushy toy, or a special memento – to give your space a personal touch. You can also add items like cosy blankets, colourful pillows, or artwork that will make your room feel more like home, even if you’re far away.
It can be tempting to head home every weekend to your familiar spots and visit friends and family. But, by immersing yourself and exploring your new city you’ll quickly get familiar with your new home, and we guarantee that you’ll fall in love with Liverpool once you get to know it. Delve into its diverse culture and variety of activities. The museums and art galleries are world-class and there’s always something fun to do and a new bar or restaurant to visit. Liverpool is a fantastic destination to explore and get to know, you’ll soon love it as much as your home town.
Exercise can help boost your mood! Studies show that physical activity can reduce stress and homesickness, so why not take a break from the blues and get out for a jog or a walk? Not only will you get some fresh air, you’ll also get your endorphins flowing, giving you a natural high. If you live in Wavertree then you have the incredible Sefton Park right in your neighbourhood, perfect for jogging, cycling, tennis and lots more. You can always join in the boot camps that work out there too. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring either – why not invite some friends over for a game of frisbee or a dance party? Make a fun playlist and you’ll be feeling better in no time. So don’t stay cooped up inside when you’re feeling homesick – get up, get moving, and use exercise to turn that frown upside down!
Eating well and getting enough sleep are essential to staying healthy and keeping your energy levels up. Make sure to get enough rest, eat nutritious foods and stay hydrated. Doing so will help you feel better. Cooking and eating with your housemates will also make you feel more connected to your new home and your housemates and help reduce feelings of being homesick at uni.
The most important thing to do is to reach out to your peers. You don’t have to be alone in your homesickness and your housemates may be going through the same feelings. Reaching out to your friends and classmates is a great way to start making connections and building a strong support system too.
If you are really struggling while feeling homesick at uni then it’s important that you seek out help. All the universities in Liverpool offer health and well-being support, it’s easy to access and confidential. Support can include help and advice with living away from home, academic demands and financial worries. Check out the student services pages for your universities here:
University of Liverpool
John Moores University
Liverpool Hope University
If you have a dog at home then it’s a dead cert that you’ll be missing them. You can fill a pooch-shaped void by signing up to borrowmydoggy.com and taking a local dog out for walks. It’ll work wonders for your feel-good factor and you’ll be helping dog owners in the area at the same time. If you live in Wavertree then Sefton Park is a doggy walking dream.
Homesickness is a common feeling among university students, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these tips, you can find ways to cope with homesickness and make your new home feel like home and make sure that you get the university experience that you deserve.