How to deal with feeling homesick or lonely at university

In the first few weeks of university you're constantly experiencing new things. During this time it is extremely easy to fall out of regular contact with your friends and family at home. Setting up a routine in which you contact your friends and family regularly throughout your week will help with feelings of homesickness or loneliness. I find that facetime and phone calls are the best form of communication as you have the chance to properly express how you're feeling, which is something that is difficult to do just through texting.

Although there are opportunities to meet people on your course at university, it can be difficult to fully get to know someone as there isn't always the opportunity to talk during sessions. Joining a sports team or a society that you're interested in can help you to meet people that are similar to you. I found that joining the dance society helped me to meet new people with similar interests to me, who are now the people that I go to if I'm feeling particularly homesick or lonely.

I can assure you that most students feel lonely or homesick sometimes. If you think you need support, I would advise speaking to those around you or your friends and family at home - simply speaking to people that care about you and your wellbeing will help you feel better. If you continue to feel homesick or lonely, I'd suggest seeking help from the support services your university provides; for example, they might have a wellbeing team or a mental health advisor. You shouldn't feel embarrassed about doing this as this is what they're there for.