Navigating Homesickness During the Holidays: A Guide for University Students

In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to cope with homesickness while still making the most of the holiday season, even when you’re far from home.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

The first step in managing homesickness is to recognize it for what it is: a natural response to being away from home during a time when most people are gathering with family. It's okay to feel sad or nostalgic. Trying to suppress those feelings can lead to frustration, so instead, allow yourself space to acknowledge them. Understanding that homesickness is a temporary, emotional reaction can help you accept it without letting it overwhelm you. Take some time to reflect on why you're feeling homesick. Could it be the absence of familiar family traditions? Or maybe it’s the feeling of missing out on the collective joy that comes with being home for the holidays? By pinpointing the source of your homesickness, you can address it more effectively.

2. Create Your Own Holiday Traditions

One of the most difficult aspects of staying at university during the holidays is the absence of your usual holiday traditions. Whether it's baking cookies with your family, decorating the house, or watching a favorite holiday movie with loved ones, these rituals help mark the season. While you may not be able to fully replicate those traditions, you can create new ones that bring some of that holiday magic to your university experience. For example:

• Decorate your space: Transform your dorm room or apartment with lights, candles, and a mini Christmas tree, or simply hang a few festive ornaments. Creating a cozy, seasonal atmosphere can help you feel more connected to the holiday spirit.

• Holiday movie marathon: Watch your favorite holiday movies or TV specials to bring a sense of comfort. Whether it's Home Alone, Love Actually, or The Grinch, these films can be a source of nostalgia that brings you a little closer to home.

• Bake or cook your favorite comfort foods: If you're missing home-cooked meals, why not try making your family’s signature dish or a holiday dessert? Even if you don't have all the ingredients, recreating something familiar can be a heartwarming experience. By embracing your own version of holiday traditions, you can create a sense of belonging, even in a space that doesn’t feel like home.

3. Stay Connected with Family and Friends

Being away from home doesn't mean being completely disconnected. Technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with family and friends, even if you can’t physically be with them. Make use of video calls, messaging apps, and social media to share in the joy of the season.

• Plan a virtual holiday gathering: If you can’t join your family for a festive dinner, organize a virtual holiday party. You can all gather on Zoom or Skype, share what you’re grateful for, and even play holiday-themed games. It’s not the same as being there in person, but it can help you feel more connected.

• Send holiday cards: Writing and sending a card to loved ones can be a thoughtful way to express how much you care. It also gives you a chance to reflect on happy memories from past holidays.

• Ask about family traditions: Even if you’re not there to celebrate with them, you can still be part of the festivities by asking about what your family is doing. Hearing about your family’s traditions or any new additions to the holiday celebration can help reduce the feeling of missing out.

Staying connected, even in small ways, can remind you that you are not alone and that your loved ones are thinking of you, even from afar.

4. Make the Most of Campus Activities

Though many students go home for the holidays, that doesn’t mean your university campus shuts down completely. Many schools offer events or activities that are geared toward students staying on campus during the break. These events can provide a sense of community and help ease feelings of isolation. Check out the university’s event calendar for holiday-themed activities, such as:

• Holiday parties or social gatherings: Some student organizations, dorms, or

campus groups host holiday parties, potlucks, or even volunteer opportunities to

help those less fortunate.

• Outdoor activities: If your university is located in an area with snow or winter charm, take advantage of local outdoor activities like ice skating, sledding, or winter walks. Being outside, surrounded by nature, can improve your mood and help yoU feel more grounded.

• Winter break study groups or movie nights: If you have friends who are also staying on campus, organizing a small gathering for shared activities, like watching a movie or playing board games, can provide a sense of warmth and camaraderie. Even if the majority of students have gone home, finding opportunities to engage with those who are staying behind can make a big difference in how connected you feel to campus life during the break.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

The holiday season can be a time of high expectations, both from others and from ourselves. It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you should be happy, festive, and excited to be on your own. But it’s important to allow yourself to feel your emotions without guilt.

• Give yourself permission to feel homesick: It’s okay to miss home. Just because you’re away doesn’t mean you have to be happy and festive all the time.

• Practice self-compassion: Be gentle with yourself. If you’re struggling with homesickness, don’t add to your stress by feeling like you’re doing something wrong. Accept where you’re at, and know that your feelings are valid. Additionally, use this time to nurture yourself. Take long walks to clear your mind, spend time reading, or indulge in a hobby you might not have had time for during the semester. This is a chance to reconnect with yourself and find joy in quieter moments.

6. Explore the Local Area

If you’re in a new city or town, use this holiday break to explore your surroundings. Sometimes, getting out and discovering a local café, visiting nearby attractions, or checking out a holiday market can provide a refreshing change of scenery and help you feel more at home in your temporary environment. Find local landmarks, hidden gems, or cozy spots that you can return to whenever you need a break. The holiday season can be a great time to enjoy a new place without the usual rush of university life.

7. Look Ahead to the Future

While it may be tough now, remember that the time spent away from home is temporary. Soon enough, you’ll be able to visit your family again and share stories of your experiences during the break. Looking forward to reunions and new memories can help ease the homesickness you're feeling right now. In the meantime, focus on what you're gaining by staying at university during the holidays—whether it’s learning to be more independent, developing new traditions, or strengthening relationships with friends and professors who are also staying behind.

Homesickness during the holidays is a common experience for university students, but it doesn’t have to overshadow your entire break. By acknowledging your emotions, creating new traditions, staying connected with loved ones, and exploring new opportunities, you can make the most of this unique time. Remember, feeling homesick doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable—it’s simply a sign that you care deeply about your roots. With a little patience and self-compassion, you’ll navigate this challenging time and emerge stronger, more resilient, and with a deeper understanding of what “home” really means.