A Guide: Preparing For College

Help For The Homesick

College is an exciting time in your life. It is also a challenging one. One problem that can strike at many students is homesickness. Though you were in a big hurry to get out of that town as soon as possible, you may soon find yourself missing your family and old friends. Here are some tips for beating homesickness.

Tips:

• Concentrate on your new surroundings and friends, not your old ones.
  
  
• If you find a particular item makes you very homesick, put it up out of sight.
  
  
• Accept any invitations from roommates or classmates.
  
  
• Schedule time for an activity that puts you in contact with other people, such as sports, study sessions or volunteering.
  
  
• Exercise or meet a friend for a cup of coffee. Exercise and caffeine are natural stimulants that can lift your spirits.
  
  
• Avoid activities that isolate you from others, like reading or watching television.
  
  
• Keep an open mind. Try at least one new activity.
  
  
• If you can't get over the blues, find help. There are counselors and groups designed to help students overcome feelings of loneliness and depression.