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The University of Southampton
Student Disability & Wellbeing Part of Student Services

Homesickness

Starting University for the first time is a big step and, even if you are returning after a break, this can be a time of great change.  You may be living away from home for the first time in a Hall of Residence, worried about how to find a house to share with friends or experiencing a difficult time with housemates in a shared house.

Difficulty adjusting to a major change in life is very common, and many students experience feelings of uncertainty and anxiety at being away from home. If this is happening to you, you are not alone, even if it may seem that everyone else is fine.

For some students this is an exciting and stimulating time, while for others it is not so easy. If you are struggling, why not try our online homesickness resources which will provide useful tips, techniques and support for beating the homesickness blues.

Online Homesickness Resources

If you have been struggling for a while, feel you are at a crisis point, or are even thinking about leaving the University, please talk to someone from the Student Hub , or your Personal Academic Tutor before you make any decisions. They are there to advise you. Some of the tips and information below may also help.

Positive steps you can take:

International students:

Living and studying in another country is a great opportunity to learn about and experience another culture, but it can be confusing and understandably it may take time to settle in. There is a lot to get used to: the weather, the language, the food, the way of life, and how things are arranged at the University. It is not uncommon to experience culture shock with all this change and it is quite normal to feel confused, anxious and lonely at first. There is lots of support available at the University, including opportunities to learn about life in the UK and to meet new people.

Student Space

The Student Space offer free, confidential support via phone, webchat, email or text. They also have useful articles on their website.

Student Hub

If homesickness is preventing you from doing your normal activities, such as seeing friends or attending lectures, you could speak to the Student Hub to find out about the support you can access.

The Wellbeing Team

The Wellbeing Team are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are available to offer support to all University of Southampton students.

CALM

Campaign Against Living Miserably offer a helpline and webchat from 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year.

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