Homesickness
Regardless of who you are and where you’ve come from, university is almost always a new experience- there aren’t many places like it and so for many uni life is different to anyting they have experienced before. If you’ve moved from another area in order to study, the unfamiliar surrounds and experiences of living in a new place can often compound the anxiety and stress that you might be feeling. Generally, we call these feelings ‘homesickness’.
Homesickness is a real issue, and it is an issue that effects the vast majority of students at one point or another. Homesickness presents itself when we jump from the familiar to the unfamiliar- an unfamiliar location, social group or culture can very quickly cause us to feel anxious about our situation. Many students will have to deal with all three at once when they first arrive, so remember that you are not alone! Don’t be afraid to talk to your fellow students- there is a good chance they are feeling a similar way, and building new relationships is one of the best ways to feel more ‘at home’. Also, remember that the university has many clubs, groups and sporting opportunities- by taking part and meeting new people, you can alleviate the sense of isolation that many people feel in a new situation.