Homesickness is a common feeling

Many students experience home sickness when they first move away from home and start university. It's completely normal to miss the familiarity of home, friends, and family.

Here are some tips to help you if you’re struggling with homesickness: 

Stay connected to home

Stay in contact with family and friends

Keep in touch with your loved ones regularly through phone calls, video chats, or text messages. Seeing a friendly face or just chatting to your mates from home as you would normally do is a great way to stay connected, and it also lets you know that even though you’ve moved away, you have their support. 

Look for home comforts 

If there are any specific foods that remind you of your home and your family, look for places in the city that might serve them or learn how to make them for yourself! Sometimes a good home-cooked meal can be the right thing to brighten your spirits. 

Create a comfortable space  

Make your room or apartment feel like home by decorating it with familiar items, such as photos, posters, or blankets. Having a cosy and comfortable space can help you feel more relaxed and help you adjust to your new home.   

Get involved in the University 

Join a society  

Joining clubs and organizations is an easy way to make new friends and become part of new communities filled with people who have the same interests as you. The University has a wide range of societies, so whatever you’re interested in, there is probably a group for you!  

Get involved in Residence Life activities 

We have a wide range of events and activities running in throughout the year to get involved with. Not only is it a great way to take your mind off feeling homesick, but it’s also a great way to meet new people, make friends and build your own community here.  

Explore your surroundings  

Get to know the area around the university. Take a walk around the campus, pop into town, go for a hike, or visit local attractions. Knowing what is available around you is always useful information to have, and exploring your new environment can help you feel more at home. 

Look after your wellbeing  

Build healthy habits into your routine  

Your well-being is important. Have a balanced diet, exercise often, and sleep well. These habits will improve your mood, energy, and self-esteem. Plus, exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. 

This also means you should treat yourself every so often. You deserve it! 

Did you know that if you’re currently living in University of Leeds Halls, you’ll automatically receive an Edge Premium membership! Your membership provides access to the gym, swimming pool, exercise classes and more. If you want to try it out but you’re worried about going alone, you can join the Gym Buddies programme where we can match you with two other people from residences who are interested in going to The Edge to help you make friends and keep fit at the same time. 

Share your feelings 

You are not the only one who feels homesick. Many other students are experiencing the same thing as most people are in a similar situation to you. Talk to your friends, lecturers, or student services if you need some support. They will listen and help you cope. 

This goes both ways too. If you have a friend who's struggling, sometimes just listening to what they have to say can be a big help. 

Remember, the RLAs in your hall are students who've been through this all before so they're a good person to have a chat and get some advice from.  

Seek support

Togetherall is an online mental health service offering resources and a safe and anonymous support community. It offers 24/7 online peer and professional support with trained counsellors.

It’s free for all for all University of Leeds students. Sign up with your University email address.

If you're struggling with homesickness, don't hesitate to reach out to the university's counselling services. They can provide you with support and resources to help you and give you tips on how to deal with feelings of homesickness. You can find out more about accessing support in our University and external support guides.