Many students experience a period of homesickness when living on their own for the first time. After the initial honeymoon phase wears off, and the requirements of their first semester increase, students can start to miss the comfort of home and family. If your student expresses that they are homesick or talks about not wanting to stay at college anymore, try not to panic. Remember that kind words, loving support and reassurance can go a long way.
The natural response to these uncomfortable feelings is to plan a trip back home for the weekend. However, this may be a temporary bandage that makes the situation more difficult. The weekends are a great time to pursue new activities and meet students who share common interests. A student who goes home each weekend is missing out on the opportunities to form relationships with peers and experience their new environment.
Instead of planning a quick trip home, listen to your student’s concerns and acknowledge their feelings without judgement. Let them know this is a natural part of living on their own and they are not the only person to feel this way. Encourage your student to get involved on campus to meet students with similar interests. Students can attend residence hall events, find clubs through the Student Activities Fair and , and form study groups with people in their major to begin making connections.
If it seems that your student needs additional support dealing with this situation, there are resources available through University Health and Counseling Services.