Starting university is exciting, but it’s completely normal to miss home too.
Whether you’re missing family, friends or more familiar surroundings, homesickness is something many students experience – especially during your first few weeks.
It usually gets easier as you settle in, but here are ten tips to help you manage those feelings.
1. Give yourself time
Moving to university is a big change. It may even be the first time you’ve been away from home.
It’s okay to feel unsettled while you adjust. Take things one day at a time and remember that adapting to university life is a process.
2. Stay connected
Arrange regular calls or messages with family and friends. Keeping in touch can be comforting.
At the same time, try not to spend all of your free time online. Enjoy sharing your experiences from uni while also making time to create new ones.
3. Personalise your space
Who says you can’t bring your childhood teddy to uni?
Family photos, decorations or familiar items can make your room feel more comfortable – like a home away from home.
4. Get involved
Join a student-led community or sports team, attend campus events or try something new.
Meeting people with similar interests can help you build connections and feel more at home.
5. Explore your new area
It can be easy to spend most of your time between your accommodation and lectures, but getting out and exploring is important.
Take a walk around campus, visit local cafés, parks or shops, and get to know Middlesbrough.
6. Talk about it
You might be surprised how many people feel the same way you do.
Chat with your flatmates, course mates or friends about your experiences.
7. Look after yourself
Getting enough sleep, eating well and staying active can have a big impact on your mood and wellbeing.
Try to make time for activities you enjoy too, whether that’s going to the gym, watching your favourite series or reading a book.
8. Ask for support
If homesickness is affecting your wellbeing or studies, don’t struggle alone. Teesside University’s support services are here to help.
Our student helpline is available 24/7, and you can talk to a qualified counsellor about how you’re feeling.
Remember – feeling homesick doesn’t mean you’ve made the wrong choice. It just means you’re adjusting to something new.
Be kind to yourself and know that settling in often happens gradually. You’ve got this.