Homesick?

[awkwardturtle]

So I never thought I would be the person to post about feeling homesick, I mean I'm never overly happy at home so why would I miss it?... But I am currently over in the UK and what was meant to be a 3 week stay has turned into 3 months. And although I am having an awesome time over here and I am learning so much from being here (I'm training and working so not really holidays), I just sort of wish I was at home. 

So does anyone have any suggestions to help feeling homesick?

[Magga]

My advice probably isn't very helpful, chances are you already do this. But if you're missing them you should call them or send a message, keep in touch with the people you care about and, although you're enjoying your time in the UK, hopefully you'll be able to come back soon and see everyone again. 

[Cassie]

Three months is a long time to be away from home so I think it's quite understandable that you're feeling homesick. In fact, people can feel homesick with even one or two nights away from home.

I think Magga's suggestion is a good one in calling or messaging the people that are back at home. And while in the UK make sure you look after yourself- surround yourself with good supports and people who help make you feel less homesick.

[awkwardturtle]

Thanks guys, I am trying to keep in contact with everyone back home as much as possible. And I took a day off today to just sit back and relax and catch up on everything that is happening back home. So I'm feeling a little bit better

[Lex]

Great to see you're feeling a bit better, awkwardturtle.

Homesickness is an interesting feeling, isn't it?

Is homesickness just missing your friends and family? Or is it something else?

For me, since I have a new "home" every six months, I find my homesickness went away when I made new friends or spent time developing friendships.
It doesn't mean I value the friendships I have far away any less than the ones in my vicinity, but whatever is missing seems to feel returned.

I miss my friends in Brisbane a lot and I miss my friends in Hong Kong even more… but I'm making new friends in Vancouver and so I don't feel so bad anymore.

What do others think of the idea that keeping in touch with people you miss only makes you miss them more?

[fosterthepeople]

Hi awkwardturtle,

I'm living away from home at the moment too and sometimes I miss it heaps cause it's where I grew up for 18 years. 

You could try Skyping your family and friends. Or randomly post a letter and/or gift to someone special at home. It'll put a huge smile on their face. It doesn't have to be someone's birthday or anything. Anyone would enjoy a random present.

Have you tried keeping a journal of your adventures with lots of photos so that when you do return you have lots of stories to share? Or create a playlist of songs that reflects how you're doing.

Hope some of that helps and enjoy your time in the UK!

FTP