You're in a new city, a new room, a new routine.
You’ve got your bucket, books, bunk bed… but something’s missing.
No, it’s not your charger (although, check under the pillow).
It’s home. That warm, noisy, slightly overprotective chaos you didn’t know you’d miss this much.
Homesickness hits different when you’re away as a student—especially in a country like India where families are tight-knit, food is sacred, and calling your mom five times a day is still normal.
What’s Going On? Why Homesickness Feels So Heavy
Contrary to popular belief, homesickness isn’t just “missing people.” It’s a real emotional response to being away from your support system, routines, and comfort zone. For many students, it gradually blends into something deeper—depression.
Especially if:
- You’ve moved out for the first time
- You're feeling isolated in a new environment
- The pressure to perform is building up silently
- You’re eating more Maggi than you should admit
Common Signs That Aren’t Just “Mood Swings”
- Feeling tired even after 10 hours of sleep
- Losing interest in things you normally enjoy (yes, even cricket!)
- Avoiding social interactions, even with friends
- Feeling teary for no “logical” reason (TV ads suddenly feel emotional?)
- Frequent headaches or body aches without much cause
If any of these feel familiar, your mind might be asking for help. Gently listen.
So, What Helps? (Beyond Video Calls & Paneer Fridays)
1. Routine is Your Friend
No one’s asking for a military timetable, but a simple morning ritual can ground your day. Wake up, stretch, have chai, breathe. It sounds silly. It works.
2. Talk it Out
Whether it’s your roommate, a friend, or a mental health counselor, don’t bottle it up like pickle jars in your suitcase. Venting lightens the load.
3. Move That Body
A brisk walk, dancing to Bollywood songs alone in your room, or just cycling to get milk — movement helps release happy chemicals. No gym membership needed.
4. Eat. Sleep. Repeat (Properly)
Skimping on nutrition or sleep makes everything worse. Your brain needs fuel, not just notes and pressure.
5. Make New Mini-Families
Find your people — friends who become siblings, hostel mates who save you tea, or classmates who share lecture notes without ego. They make the new place feel a little less foreign.
“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.”
Missing home is not weakness.
Feeling low doesn’t make you any less ambitious or capable. It makes you human.
Adjusting to a new life takes time, and while nothing beats maa ke haath ka khana, the human heart is surprisingly adaptable. With the right care, a little patience, and a few emotional phone calls (okay, many), things do get better.
You’re not alone—even if your room feels like it.
And if today was hard, remember: tomorrow comes with chai and another chance to feel better.
