How To Beat Homesickness When Living Abroad

Studying in a different country is one of the most adventurous things you can do, with new experiences, cultures and people around every corner. Studying abroad can also be overwhelming. Homesickness is common among international students, but while missing your family and friends back home is natural, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying daily life at university.

The Chapter student accommodation across London provides a welcoming, supportive community for international students to make friends and confidently leap into student life. Here are our top tips for keeping homesickness at bay.

6 Loneliness Tips for Students Abroad:

1. Use the Chapter Student Accommodation Facilities Around London

Student living with Chapter means access to so much more than your flat. Enjoy an on-site gym, cinema and communal study space in your building. Make the most of the amenities in your Chapter Student accommodation when you arrive.

Joining the Chapter Club is another way to get involved in the Chapter community. Chapter Club membership gives you access to the entertainment facilities in all 14 student accommodation buildings across London and the weekly Chapter social events we host across the city.

2. Explore Your New City

London has so many landmarks, restaurants and shops for you to enjoy. Plus, the more familiar you are with the city, the more it will feel like a second home. So take a famous red bus tour, view the skyline from the London Eye and explore the many arts and history museums across the city. Why not head to the West End and catch a theatre show?

All 14 Chapter accommodations in London are in excellent locations, with easy access to public transport around the capital.

3. Participate in Local Activities and Societies

It can be hard to make new friends at university. Especially if you feel nervous and homesick. But there is no better place to meet like-minded individuals! Taking up a hobby or joining a cultural society is one of the best ways to meet people who enjoy the same things you do and bond over a mutual interest.

Joining a sports club is a great way to stay fit and meet new people. Universities have so many sports clubs to choose from, so you can learn a new sport or keep developing in one you are already good at!

Most universities also have international societies where you can meet other students studying abroad. Knowing supportive people who understand your experience can help beat the homesickness bug. Typically, clubs and groups have a Facebook or WhatsApp group you can join to stay updated on upcoming events and activities.

4. Stay Connected to Your Home Through:

Phone Calls with Family and Friends

Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Zoom and FaceTime all allow you to call home. Scheduling your weekly calls home with them will help you feel grounded and close to your loved ones when they’re far away. Time zone differences can make it feel like your family is less reachable, so set up the best times to call for you and them.

Sounds, Tastes and Smells

According to a study by HSBC, 74% of international students reported missing the sounds of their homes the most. HSBC has created the Sounds of Home on Spotify and Apple Music, a series of global soundscapes to bring international students the familiar sounds of their home countries.

Food is also a great way to bring a piece of home into your new city. Find restaurants that offer local cuisine or make some in your own kitchen. With all the local markets and independent supermarkets around London, you’re sure to find the ingredients you need to recreate the tastes and smells of home in your apartment.

5. Prioritise Mental Health

In many cases, homesickness is temporary. However, if you find you’re struggling and it’s taking a toll on your mental health, it’s worth taking time for self-care. We recommend:

Regular Exercise and Healthy Eating

Aside from keeping your body healthy, regular exercise helps to reduce anxiety and depression. Why not run on the treadmill or hit the weights in the gym at your Chapter accommodation? What we eat also affects our mental well-being. Make time to prepare healthy, balanced meals rich in healthy proteins, minerals and fats.

Take Quiet Time for Yourself

Although staying busy is helpful, it’s key not to burn yourself out. Give yourself time during the week to unwind and focus on yourself. Watching your favourite movie, doing a facial, reading a book or playing your favourite video games are

Use the Well-Being Services at Your University and Accommodation

Your Chapter student accommodation has a student welfare service available to help and support you 24/7. As a Chapter student, you also get free access to the My Healthy Advantage App for more well-being resources. Don’t forget that your university will also have support available to you.

Looking for International Student Accommodation in London?

Chapter is Here to Help You Thrive

Experiencing homesickness as an international student is okay. However, it shouldn’t hold you back from making new friends and enjoying your time at university! Manageable, proactive steps like joining societies, keeping up with hobbies and staying in touch with family will help you find your rhythm.

Using the resources and facilities in your Chapter accommodation will also help! Read about Chapter Club Membership and explore the on-site amenities in our student accommodation around London.

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