Feeling homesick? 4 ways to cope
Whether you've just started your college journey or you鈥檙e in your final year, it's totally normal to miss home or feel a little out of place sometimes. The good news? There are plenty of ways to build connections and feel more at home on campus. Here are a few simple strategies to help you feel more grounded and connected.听
听听Navigate change听
Even if it doesn鈥檛 always show, many students feel homesick or lonely at some point. It鈥檚 completely okay to miss your people, your routines or the comfort of home鈥攅specially after a big transition.听
The important thing to remember? These feelings are temporary, and you鈥檝e likely navigated transitions like this before. As you settle in, meet new people and find your rhythm, things usually start to feel easier and more familiar. Lean into your strengths and remember what helped you adjust to change in previous situations.听
Here are some tips to help in the meantime:听听
- Set small goals. Try attending one campus event, joining a club, or simply chatting with someone new each week. Little steps can lead to big changes.听
- Remember your 鈥渨hy.鈥 Think about what brought you to CU and the exciting opportunities ahead. You鈥檙e here for a reason, and your journey is just beginning.听
- Feel your feelings. It鈥檚 okay to feel sad or overwhelmed sometimes. Let yourself feel it, then gently shift your focus鈥攃all a friend, read something uplifting or listen to your favorite song.听
- Reframe homesickness. Missing home means you have strong, loving connections鈥攁nd that鈥檚 something to be grateful for.听听
听听Stay in touch听
No matter how you're feeling, keeping in touch with friends and family back home can be a powerful way to stay grounded. Regular check-ins, whether it鈥檚 quick texts or long video chats, can help ease feelings of homesickness and remind you that you're supported and loved. And if you're having a tough time, don鈥檛 hesitate to reach out to someone you trust. Talking things through can help you feel less alone and more understood.听听
Try these ways to stay connected:听听
- Schedule regular calls or video chats. Even short conversations can make a big difference.听
- Send letters or postcards. Getting something in the mail is always a sweet surprise.听
- Share your college experience on social. Keep the meme exchange going or post updates to stay connected.听
- Start a group chat. Keep everyone in the loop and share support, laughs, and life updates.听
听听Establish a routine听
College life comes with a lot of new responsibilities鈥攍iving on your own, navigating campus, managing classes, and figuring out your schedule. One of the best ways to feel a sense of control is by building a routine that fits your life.听听
Even small habits can help reduce stress and make your days feel more predictable. Just remember routines aren鈥檛 one-size-fits-all, and it鈥檚 totally okay to modify yours as you adjust to the new semester.听
Here are some easy ways to build structure into your week:听听听
- Plan your day. Block out time for studying, classes and socializing.听
- Include your favorite activities or hobbies. Intentionally making time for things you enjoy can help boost your mood and add balance to your routine.听
- Find your go-to study spot. A space that helps you focus can make a big difference.听
- Stick to a cleaning or laundry schedule. Keeping your space tidy helps your mind feel clearer, too.听
听听Put yourself out there听听
Making friends in college can feel different than it did growing up. It might seem intimidating to open up or meet new people, but those feelings are normal. If you're still searching for your crew, you're definitely not alone.听
The good news? There are lots of ways to connect with others and build meaningful friendships over time.听
Try these strategies to meet new friends:听
- Be a regular. Showing up consistently to clubs, campus events or study sessions helps people get to know you.听
- Sit near the same people in class. Familiar faces can turn into friendships鈥攕tudy groups are a great way to start.听
- Start with group hangouts. If hanging out one-on-one feels intimidating, try joining group activities or events.听
- Make the first move. Chances are that others are also looking for connection. Invite someone to join you at an event or the dining center鈥攊t might mean more to them than you realize. 听
Remember, transitioning to college life is a journey, not a race. Give yourself grace as you grow and try new things. Each step you take, no matter how small, moves you closer to feeling truly at home. Be patient with yourself, lean into opportunities and celebrate every win along the way. You鈥檙e creating your own unique college story, and with time, you鈥檒l find the comfort and community you鈥檙e looking for.
听听Find support听
If you鈥檙e struggling to connect with others, feel lonely or need some extra help, try connecting with support resources on campus.听
Peer Wellness Coaching: Meet with a trained student to explore ways to make friends on campus, set goals, create routines and make the most of your time at 黑料社区网.听听
Campus Life:听 Learn about programs and opportunities to help you get involved, meet fellow Buffs, enjoy life on campus and prepare for your future.听听听
Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS offers confidential, on-campus mental health and psychiatric services for a variety of concerns such as academics, anxiety, depression, relationships, substance use and more.听听听