Combating homesickness and culture shock: Practical wellbeing tips for international students in London 

Homesickness is the emotional distress we feel when we’re separated from the people and places we know and love. It can affect us in many ways – both physically and mentally. Symptoms include: 

• Feelings of sadness, loss and loneliness 

• Lack of motivation 

• Loss of appetite and an upset stomach 

• Headaches and (literal) heartache 

• Fatigue and trouble sleeping 

Culture shock, often coming hand-in-hand with homesickness, is the sense of disorientation and anxiety you might feel when trying to navigate an unfamiliar place or culture. Even the simplest everyday task, from taking the bus to doing your grocery shopping, becomes a huge undertaking. 

While you might feel like you’re the only person in London feeling this way, you’re not alone. Homesickness and culture shock affect thousands of international students, tourists and expats all over the world – and with the right tools and support, you can overcome them. 

Just because you’re physically far from loved ones, it doesn’t mean you can’t stay in touch. Today’s hyper-connected world means there are plenty of ways to check in with friends and family. 

1. Schedule regular video calls via FaceTime or WhatsApp at a time that works for everyone. This allows you to negotiate different time zones and avoids interrupting sleep or lectures. Remember to call while connected to Wi-Fi to avoid huge bills. 
2. Send messages or voice notes when you’re out and about.  
3. Share your experiences by sending pictures, videos, and funny stories. This will help you embrace your new life while involving friends and family in your journey. 
4. Step away from your phone. Calling and messaging home too often could make you feel more homesick.  

London is one of the world’s most multicultural cities so no matter where you’re from, you’re sure to find sights, sounds and tastes that feel familiar. 

Cultural events

Immerse yourself in the events that reflect your heritage, from the famous Notting Hill Carnival to the West End’s Chinese New Year celebrations. 

A taste of home

What could be more evocative than the scent of your favourite comfort food? Explore London’s diverse restaurant scene to find dishes that remind you of home. Even better, cook it yourself. Shop at one of the city’s many world food grocery stores to find the right ingredients. 

Find a home from home

London is a city of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and culture. Discover a community that feels like home, from Brick Lane to Brixton. 

The quicker you find your people, the sooner you’ll start to settle into student life in London. Having a support system of those who understand what you’re going through and how you’re feeling, can help to combat feelings of homesickness.  

Join a community

Join a Facebook group or online community for international students and go to in-person meet ups. This is an easy way to find and connect with fellow expats.  

Explore clubs and societies

UWS has clubs and societies to suit any interest or hobby. So whether you’re a keen runner, you love football or photography is your thing – you can do more of what you enjoy while meeting people with shared interests. 

TEG Club events

What better way to meet fellow students than by joining the UWS TEG Club? Exclusively for UWS students, TEG Club gives you free access to a variety of fun events and experiences, from a boat trip down the Thames to yoga classes and the annual summer party.

Join us today!

When you’re missing home, it can be difficult to find the energy to get out and explore. But by getting stuck into student life in London, exploring new places and embracing new experiences, you’ll start to feel like you belong.

Be a tourist

Take advantage of being in one of the world’s most iconic cities by taking in all the sights. Visit one of London’s numerous free museums and art galleries, or stroll down the South Bank to take in views of the London Eye, Westminster and St Paul’s.

Try something new

Can you remember why you chose to study in London? Whether it was the lure of ordering your first pint in a traditional pub, swimming in the Serpentine or going to a music festival – now is your chance to do all those things and more. 

Volunteering

Feel part of your community by volunteering your time with local charities and initiatives. Taking part in a litter pick or sorting donations at a charity shop can be a great way to meet people while giving you a sense of purpose.

Find an opportunity here  

Moving to a new country can be stressful and exhausting so it’s important to take care of your physical and mental health. 

Eat well

Avoid splurging on takeaways or skipping meals. Instead eat regular nutritious, home-cooked meals to make you feel energised. 

Get enough sleep

Aim for between 7 and 9 hours sleep a night and create healthy sleep habits. Drinking alcohol or using screens late at night will make it harder to sleep soundly. 

Exercise regularly

Being active and boosting your heart rate can help to improve your mood. Find something you love – a walk in the park, an exercise class or playing sport – and schedule it into your week. 

Go outside

When you’re busy studying it’s easy to find yourself sat at a laptop all day. A regular dose of vitamin D and fresh air are a great way to clear your mind and reduce stress. 

Take time out

Find ways to relax and unwind – listening to music, reading a book, meditating or writing in your journal. 

Seek help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a friend or seek professional help. UWS London offers free, confidential counselling services to all UWS students.

Reach out for support

Every international student experiences mixed emotions when moving to study abroad. Feeling homesickness and culture shock doesn’t mean you’ve made a mistake or you’re weak – instead it’s a sign that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone, growing as an individual and becoming a stronger person.  

By staying connected with your loved ones, exploring London’s varied communities and experiences, and taking care of yourself, you’ll soon stop feeling out of place, and start to feel at home.