How to Overcome Homesickness as a New Immigrant

Homesickness is prevalent among most international students. Your vulnerability in a new setting is massive, and you can often regret moving to a new country. Most of us move to a new country bright-eyed, hoping for a better life. However, the transition from your home country can take time and effort. The culture shock and lack of familial support can lead us in a downward spiral.
Initially, it’s just this void that you don’t know how to fill, slowly developing into anxiety and depression. So how do you overcome homesickness? The first step is to recognize and acknowledge your feelings. Once you’ve realized this, you can start combating homesickness and find happiness.

What are the signs of homesickness?

Homesickness can be felt through physical and mental symptoms. Some of the most common physical symptoms involve loss of appetite, fatigue, and lethargy. Mental symptoms include depression, loneliness, anxiety, and apathy towards the new environment. As an entirety living an everyday happy life becomes more challenging and complicated.

Is it normal to feel homesick after moving to another country?

Adjusting to a new setting, culture, and language takes time. It took a lot of courage to move to a new country. Even though you’re mentally prepared to overcome homesickness in the new environment, it will take some time to transition. The chaotic energy surrounding you during the move will slowly start to subside, and that’s when you first feel the tingling of loneliness. Even so, homesickness is a widespread phenomenon among international students. Over 94% of international college student experience homesickness initially after their arrival.

How long does homesickness last abroad?

The intensity or the period you feel homesick can vary. Studies have shown that homesickness varies from person to person based on several factors like age, social setting, personality and support networks. But typically, in a standard setting, you should overcome homesickness between 3 weeks to 1 year and four months.

How can I stop feeling homesick?

Creating a routine and decorating your space are the first steps in acclimating to your new environment. Feeling lonely is the number one cause of homesickness. Making new friends and creating a support structure can help you feel a sense of belonging. If you find it hard to take the first step and make friends, simply “ get adopted”. Well, take it from an introverted person. It is pretty easy to get adopted by an extrovert. Better yet, explore the country and its culture. Immersing yourself in new experiences and trying new cuisines and settings will help you overcome homesickness. Overall, creating a safe space by making it yours will help you combat loneliness.

Undoubtedly, moving to a new country and starting a new life takes courage and fortitude. We understand and acknowledge how hard this journey can be for an individual. We here at Merit Immigration will help you quickly transition to your new life. Discover what we offer to make your journey as smooth as possible.