Feeling homesick or lonely at university?

Starting University is an exciting time. You have newfound freedom; you’re meeting lots of new people and you are studying a subject you are passionate about.  
 
But at times, especially in the first few months, university can feel a little overwhelming. It might be your first time away from home and you are missing your family and friends. Perhaps being in a new city and trying to settle into university life is taking longer than you expected. When you feel like this is can be easy to become homesick and feel lonely. 
 
The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. Every student at some point in their journey feels this way. But if you do find yourself feeling a little lost a uni, don’t ignore it, be kind to yourself and take some time to help yourself feel more like you again. 

To help you out, here are four tips on how to deal with homesickness at university.  

1. Stay in touch with family and friends  

Starting university is a busy time. Between lectures, working and other commitments, it can be easy to lose touch with family and friends. But with so many new things happening, it’s important to stay in touch with those who know you best.  

Your loved ones are often central to your happiness and wellbeing, so lean on them when you need support. Picking up the phone or face timing with your parents, siblings or friends is a great way to boost your mood, get things off your chest and share what’s happening with you.  

Start by setting up regular catchups. Add it to your calendar so you don’t forget. Or take turns so that you call one week, and your family call the next. If you are commuting to uni, set aside some time each week to talk to your family or friends. Something as simple as a chat can reduce feelings of loneliness and help you stay connected to your home.  

2. Join a society or club 

You may have already met people on your course, but it can be difficult to get to know them outside of lectures and group work, especially if you have conflicting schedules. 

Joining a club or society will not only help you meet people who have the same interests as you, but it will also encourage you to get out and take a break. The Union have something for everyone to get involved in.  

If you play sports, why not join a team? It can be for fun or to play in a league. By staying active you can help boost your self-esteem, improve sleeping patterns, and give yourself more energy. It’s also another way to feel part of a community and create bonds with people. 

You could also look at volunteering opportunities. The Union work with local and national charities that are always looking for people to lend a helping hand. Not only is giving back a great thing to do, but it can also boost your happiness and emotional wellbeing.  

 
3. Get into a routine 

While it may be difficult to create a routine in the busy first few weeks of uni, it’s important to establish a healthy pattern. Try to go food shopping or go to the gym on certain days of the week. Little steps like this can help you feel more settled in your new university life. Always remember to give yourself some free time to relax or do something you enjoy.  

Try to get out in the fresh air, this might include taking a walk around a local park or a stroll through the city centre. Why not explore somewhere new? Manchester has lots of cool and interesting places to discover, that won’t break the bank! Check out 8 things to do in Manchester when you start uni. 

4. Reach out and talk to someone at the University 

If you’re feeling lonely, try not to bottle it up and withdraw from other people. Don’t get to the point where you are feeling overwhelmed by university life. 

Try reaching out and speaking to someone about your troubles, like a flatmate or someone on your course. Chances are you are not the only one feeling this way.  

Struggling with managing your workload? Chat with your tutors who can give you time management advice and recommend tools you can use to get a better work-life balance.  You can also follow our tips on working more productively.  

If you feel your mental health is suffering, we have different support networks you can use. Our Counselling, Mental Health, and Wellbeing services offer 1-2-1 appointments for you to chat with an adviser. We also offer a range of wellbeing workshops and courses including managing stress and mindfulness.