sickness

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sickness

• It happens to everyone

wellness.ucsd.edu
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What is Homesickness?

• Sometimes referred to as separation anxiety.
• It can impact us when we experience a change in
  people, environments, and demands.
• Not just reserved for college-students. It can
  occur when anyone changes environments (new home,
  travelling, etc.)

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Why Homesickness?

• When something new and different occurs, we look
  to something that is comfortable and natural
  tofall back on.

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Symptoms of Homesickness

• Feelings of isolation and loneliness
• Feeling depressed/ sad with low motivation to
  study or make new friends
• Yearning for a connection to someone who will
  take the pain away and make things seem
  alright.
• Anxiety about performance in school

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The Good News About Homesickness

• It doesnt last forever!
• It presents us with an opportunity to learn and
  grow.
• When we work to master homesickness, we can
  increase our range of comfortable experiences
  which usually leads to increased self esteem and
  a sense of independence.

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Tips for Beating Homesickness

• Get out of your room!
• Its easy to hide, but step out of your bubble
  and get involved with organizations on campus
  that interest you.
• Go out with college friends.
• And make new friends! Having a fun night out to
  eat can take your mind off home and remind you of
  the fun that can be had at college.
• Call home.
• Use your family as support, but not a crutch.
  You need to start a new life on your own.

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More Tips for Beating Homesickness

• Dont bury your feelings.
• Drinking or partying does not make your feelings
  go away.
• Shift negative thinking to positive.
• See this change as an opportunity for something
  new. Seek new opportunities.
• Allow yourself to feel homesick.
• Everyone is susceptible separation anxiety. Give
  yourself time, but also be proactive about your
  emotions and how you can address them.
• You are also allowed to enjoy yourself it isnt
  being disloyal to those you miss.

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Campus Resources

• Center for Ethics Spirituality
• The support system of a religious community can
  be a great help.
• CAPS
• Sometimes, we all need someone to listen.
• caps.ucsd.edu
• Your RA!
• They love to listen and can help you meet new
  people.
• getinvolved.ucsd.edu
• Theres an organization for everyone

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CAPS Workshops

• Freshman Success
• This workshop provides strategies for
  successfully transitioning to college. Discussion
  topics include getting to know resources on
  campus, juggling priorities, transition issues,
  managing stress, and success strategies. Leader
  Christina Castro, Ph.D., 858-534-0252.
• Check out caps.ucsd.edu for many more unique and
  tailored workshops! All free!