Are you feeling homesick?

Our tips to overcome homesickness

It’s that time of year when the clocks go back, the weather gets colder and you may start to feel homesick.  
You’re not alone, research shows that almost 35% of new students experience homesickness. 

What is homesickness? 

Homesickness is a feeling of stress or anxiety caused by separation from people and places that you know and love. If you are new to living in Liverpool or the UK you may experience homesickness more than others. 

How to overcome feelings of homesickness

Our Student Advice and Wellbeing team offers support and advice on overcoming homesickness. Here are some of their tips: 

1. Acknowledge how you feel and believe it will pass 

It’s normal to feel homesick and it usually fades as you settle in and make new connections. Be sure to give it time and be patient while you adjust. 

2. Talk to someone 

Talk to other students in your halls or on your course. You may find they’ve been feeling the same way and you can offer each other support.  

3. Try something new 

Making new connections at university and with the city can help ease feelings of homesickness. Join a new club, society or sports team with John Moores Students’ Union or explore the city and get to know your new surroundings.  

Decorate your room so that it feels homely and a place you are happy to spend time in and make sure you are staying active and healthy. Joining the gym, going on a walk or journaling are all ways to keep your energy levels up and are good for your mental wellbeing. 

4. Keep in touch with people at home 

Schedule regular check-ins with friends or family at home and make them part of your new routine. It could be a weekly FaceTime or catch up. Try to avoid constant contact as this can make homesickness worse and instead schedule your catch-ups as an activity to look forward to during your week.   

5. Get support 

You can book a 1-2-1 appointment in person or online with our Student Advice and Wellbeing team. LJMU has a team of wellbeing advisors who can help and support you if you need advice or someone to talk to, especially if your homesickness is affecting your wellbeing or mental health. 

You can also email studentwellbeing@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 3664.  

You can also read more on our website about how to overcome homesickness.