Homesick at college? 5 tips to help

Healthy-ways-to-deal-with-homesickness.png

Healthy-ways-to-deal-with-homesickness.png

Whether you’re a freshman new to Nashville or a senior returning for your final year, homesickness can hit anyone at any point in time. For some, it might hit at the beginning of the semester when summer is still in the air and time at home isn’t too far away. For others, homesickness might jump out when you least expect it, when the fall air sets in or the sweet tea tastes just like it did at home. Getting homesick can happen to anyone at any time, so here’s a few tips to help if it happens to you.

1. Stay positive.

A positive attitude can go along way. While being away from home can be extremely difficult, remembering to find the silver lining can be a game-changer. Focus on the good things surrounding you instead of the things you’re missing. Instead of thinking about how far away home is, think about how exciting it is to be following your calling. A change of perspective might seem simple, but shifting your thoughts into a more positive light can be extremely beneficial.

Whether you’re new to Tennessee or a native Nashvillian, homesickness can still hit. Try exploring campus or the surrounding city. The more acquainted you get with your new surroundings, the less they’ll feel “new.” Being able to quickly point out Greathouse on campus, or knowing how to get to Fido or Frothy Monkey coffee shops, will help you feel more at home. So get out, explore Trevecca and Nashville and discover what your favorite parts are.

2. Explore.

 Whether you’re new to Tennessee or a native Nashvillian, homesickness can still hit. Try exploring campus or the surrounding city. The more acquainted you get with your new surroundings, the less they’ll feel “new.” Being able to quickly point out Greathouse on campus, or knowing how to get to Fido or Frothy Monkey coffee shops, will help you feel more at home. So get out, explore Trevecca and Nashville and discover what your favorite parts are.

3. Personalize your space.

Having a space that is truly your own is a great way to help with missing home. Fill your space with your favorite photos or items from home so it doesn’t feel so far away. Keeping special items and moments close will help you keep home in your heart.

4. Make plans.

It’s hard to be homesick when you’re busy. Try your best to make plans and meet new people. Everyone at college is in the same boat as you—stressed, studying, meeting new people and seeing new places—so invite some new friends to see the city or grab a bite to eat. You can also make plans to go home. Having a long weekend at home to look forward to, can be a great way to help with missing homes.

5. Get active.

While curling up on the couch with a sad movie and the cookies sent from home might be just what you need when you’re feeling down, heading out to the the track or the gym might be a helpful, too. Staying active and keeping your body moving is a great way to keep a positive attitude.

Home might be 10 minutes away or 10 hours away, you might be a freshmen or a senior—and missing home can still happen. Using these tips can help you make the most of your time at Trevecca; they can help you when your missing home and might even help you make Nashville your home away from home!