How to Deal With Homesickness After Moving (38 Ways + Expert Insigts)

Moving to a new place brings a mix of feelings. You feel excited about starting over but also miss your old home, friends, and the little things that made your day. This feeling, often called homesickness, is a part of moving.

I know how it feels. You look for the familiar in everything new and sometimes feel lost.

This article is your friend in this journey. It will share simple steps to help you feel more at home in your new place.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

The first step to dealing with homesickness is to acknowledge these feelings as a natural part of the process. It can be tempting to push these feelings aside but trust me, facing them head-on is key.

Now, the beauty of acknowledging these feelings is that it’s the first step toward managing them.

Understanding what you’re feeling helps to demystify it, making it less scary. So, whisper it, shout it, write it down – just let those feelings know they’ve been seen.

Stay Connected With Loved Ones

Now, just because you’re miles away, it doesn’t mean you’re alone in this. Staying in touch with your loved ones can make a world of difference. In my first weeks after moving, calling my sister every evening was what kept me afloat.

You can do the same with your friends or family. Thanks to technology, connecting has never been easier.

Explore Your New Surroundings

Ever been a tourist in your own city? It’s quite the adventure. Approach your new location with the same curiosity. This is your new playground—so much to see, learn, and experience! On my first move, I discovered this quaint little coffee shop that I’d never have found if I hadn’t decided to just wander about.

Here’s a challenge: Go for walks to explore and find hidden spots. Sample the local cuisine, like the popular food truck nearby. Get involved with the community by attending local events.

As you explore, you start making new memories. And this helps bridge the old with the new.

Create a New Routine

You might think a routine sounds boring, but it’s actually about creating moments you can look forward to each day. Now, I’m not saying you need to plan every minute.

Start small. Maybe it’s deciding that every morning, before the world wakes up, you’ll sit by the window with a cup of coffee, just enjoying the quiet. Or, perhaps, it’s an evening walk, where you let the day’s stress melt away.

These routines are like small anchors; they give you little bits of calm and things you can count on when everything else is new.

And you know what’s cool? As these routines solidify, they start to feel like familiar friends. They can turn a new, unfamiliar place into “your” place, where you have your own spots and your own pace.

Practice Self-Care

Take it from me, self-care isn’t all about bubble baths and face masks – although they’re great. It’s also about making sure you’re not being too hard on yourself. Moving is one of life’s top stressors, so give yourself some credit for braving it.

Self-care is about tuning in and giving yourself what you need when you need it. It’s your secret weapon not just to survive but to thrive in your new environment. Remember, you’re taking care of the most important person in your life – you.

Join Local Clubs or Groups

Let’s face it, making friends as an adult can be awkward. It’s not like you can just share a swing and be besties. But, joining a local club or group is like finding a shortcut on a busy road.

It’s a way to meet people who share your interests. Whether you’re into books, sports, knitting, or you name it, there’s probably a group for it.

And don’t sweat it if the first club you try isn’t a perfect match. Each meeting is a chance to learn something new about a hobby or yourself. So, wear your curiosity like a badge of honor and dive in.

The stories and friendships waiting for you on the other side? They’re the real treasures.

"If you are an introvert, make a plan to develop a social life before you move. For example, you can join online networking groups that may give opportunities to socialize in person in smaller gatherings."

— Dr. Thomas J. Bussen and Dr. H. Parkman Biggs | Researchers, International Citizens | Co-authors, "Shaping the Global Leader" 

Embrace New Experiences

Diving into new experiences is the spice of life, especially when you’re in a new place. It’s like opening a book you’ve never read before; every page holds a different surprise.

I remember the first time I tried Zumba dancing after my move—it was exciting (and a bit embarrassing at first, but who cares?). Every new thing you try adds color to your life here.

• Say ‘yes‘ more often: Whether to an invitation or trying something out-of-the-ordinary.
• Be adventurous: That new restaurant or gallery opening? Go for it.
• Reflect on your experiences: Appreciate how they’re shaping the ‘new you’.

New experiences have this wonderful way of opening our eyes to different perspectives. They remind us that there’s no one way to live, to enjoy, to explore. So, next time you’re faced with an opportunity to try something out of your comfort zone, jump at it.

Set Goals

Think small and achievable; we’re not aiming for the moon on the first flight. For me, it was learning how to cook one new recipe per week within my first month. Think about where you want to be in a week, a month, or a year—and chart a course to get there.

Start small. It’s about baby steps. Maybe your first goal is simply to introduce yourself to a new neighbor or find the best coffee in town. Celebrate these achievements, and then set new ones.

Remember, goals are personal. They’re not about impressing anyone or ticking off boxes for the sake of it. This journey is yours, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a step in making this new place your own.

Stay Active

Here’s a universally acknowledged truth: staying active does wonders for the mind, body, and soul. And when you’re in a new place, it doubles as a fantastic way to connect—both with yourself and the community.

Physical activity, be it yoga in the park, joining a local sports team, or simply taking daily walks, can be a springboard to feeling better both inside and out.

Doing these activities also helps you discover your new area, like turning a jog into a sightseeing trip. Being active is great for your mood because it helps your brain release all those happy chemicals that combat stress and blues.

Soon, you’ll start saying hi to other runners, knowing your neighbors, and feeling like you belong.

Seek Support

When I was new in town, I felt lost. So, I spoke to a coworker who also moved recently, and what she told me was really helpful. There’s strength in asking for help, whether it’s practical advice or just a sympathetic ear. Finding support is like assembling your personal cheer squad.

And don’t forget about the power of furry friends! Pets provide unconditional support and companionship. If you have a pet, you already have a support system with paws. If not, maybe now’s the time to consider adopting or volunteering with animals.

Their simple presence can bring comfort and joy; no words are needed.

Befriend Your Neighbors

Befriending your neighbors can turn waving from across the street into coffee chats in your kitchen. It’s all about connecting the dots from ‘the house next door’ to ‘Joan next door who loves gardening just as much as you do.’

Your next best friend or favorite neighbor might just be living right next door.

Volunteer in Your Community

Volunteering is a heartfelt way to connect with your new community, and it’s something I’ve personally found to be incredibly rewarding. It allows you to give back and, at the same time, build relationships with locals who share similar values and interests.

From food banks to animal shelters, the opportunities to lend a hand are endless. There’s something out there for everyone.

And the best part? That wonderful feeling of making a difference. It’s a win-win.

Volunteering also offers a unique insight into the heart and soul of your new home. You’ll learn about local issues and how you can be part of the solution. Plus, the connections and friendships you make along the way can be some of the most meaningful.

Learn a New Skill or Hobby

Think about it – when you’re busy getting better at something, your brain doesn’t have much time to feel homesick. Picture yourself strumming the first chords on a guitar, painting your first landscape, or speaking a new language. Frustrating at first? Maybe. But it’s also thrilling. 

Plus, engaging in a new hobby is a fantastic conversation starter and a way to connect with others who share your interests.

Local workshops, online courses, or community classes can be your playgrounds. These learning environments are more than educational venues; they’re social hubs where laughter is shared, friendships are formed, and support is given freely.

Keep a Journal

Put pen to paper and let your thoughts flow—it’s one of the oldest forms of reflection and self-discovery. Keeping a journal has been my personal compass when I’ve felt lost in transition. It’s both a record of your journey and a confidant.

Journalkeeping is about contributing to your story in meaningful ways. You’re documenting your evolution as you adapt to your new life.

"My patients know how much I love journaling; it works well for every big life transition including moving house.

At first, your entries may look glum as you write about missing home, but they will hopefully look up over time, and you will feel a sense of relief when you see the change in your emotions from the beginning of the journal to the end."

— Ray Sadoun | Medical Reviewer & Addiction Advocate, OK Rehab

Attend Local Events

Joining in on local events is like opening the door to the community’s heart. You see the local culture in action, you participate, you engage—it’s a beautiful way to feel a part of something bigger.

From farmers’ markets to music festivals, each event offers a unique slice of life and an opportunity to connect with your community.

Each event you attend knits you more tightly into the fabric of your new location. Whether it’s cheering on the local sports team, supporting a charity run, or getting your groove on at a music fest, these experiences color your life and create a sense of belonging.

Host a Housewarming Party

Having a housewarming party is a fun way to tell people, “This is my new place, come on over!“. It marks the point where you’re feeling at home and want to share it with friends.

You don’t need to throw a big, fancy party for it to be special. Just ask some people from your neighborhood, work, or new friends for a casual get-together with some coffee, snacks, or an easy meal. What makes it special is being together, chatting, and laughing. By inviting people in, you show you’re becoming a part of the neighborhood.

Think about the stories you’ll exchange, the friends you’ll make, and finally knowing the people around you. These are the things that make you feel like you belong.

Decorate With Familiar Items

Surrounding yourself with familiar items can be incredibly comforting when everything else around you is changing. It’s about creating a refuge that reflects your identity and history.

Decorating with familiar items doesn’t mean you’re living in the past. Instead, it’s about bringing pieces of your journey into your new beginning. It’s a way to honor where you’ve been as you embrace where you are now.

This blend of the old and new can provide a sense of continuity and comfort as you navigate through the changes.

Enjoy Familiar Foods

Food has this magical ability to transport us back home, no matter how far we’ve wandered. Whether it’s your mom’s secret spaghetti recipe or the street tacos from your hometown, recreating and enjoying these dishes can provide immense comfort.

When I felt homesick, I would spend a Sunday making my mom’s version of Japanese curry rice, and every bite was a warm hug for my soul.

• Cook dishes that remind you of home.
• Visit restaurants that serve food from your hometown or country.
• Share your culture’s cuisine with new friends—it’s a great conversation starter.

Enjoying familiar foods is an easy and satisfying way to keep your heritage alive within your new environment, creating a mix of nostalgia and new beginnings.

Celebrate Traditions From Home

Holding onto traditions from home is like keeping a piece of your heart alive, no matter where you are in the world. These traditions, whether they’re holiday celebrations, weekly rituals, or simply a special way of saying goodbye, act as anchors, reminding us of our roots and the journey that has brought us to where we are today.

So, dust off those family recipes, dig out the holiday decorations, or whatever it is that makes your tradition special, and bring it into your new life.

Consider inviting a few neighbors or new friends to join in your celebration. It’s a beautiful way to share a piece of yourself, introducing them to your culture and customs.

And who knows? They might just share some of their traditions with you in return, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences that enrich everyone involved.

Organize Virtual Hangouts

In this digital age, miles apart doesn’t mean out of touch. Organizing virtual hangouts is a fantastic way to keep the bonds with family and friends back home as tight-knit as ever.

Think of it as a bridge connecting your old world with your new one. The beauty of virtual hangouts lies in their flexibility. Time zones get tricky, but with a little planning, you can find a window that works for everyone—even if it means someone is sipping their morning brew while another is winding down for the night.

Whether it’s a weekly trivia night, a shared movie-watching experience, or just catching up over video chat with a cup of coffee in hand, these moments help shrink the distance and keep those important relationships vibrant.

It’s about making the effort to stay connected and share new experiences and challenges while also being there for one another.

Experience All Emotions

Life’s like a roller coaster – you’ve got the ups, the downs, and the loops in between. Since moving, I’ve learned to embrace every emotional turn. When you allow yourself to truly feel, you’re acknowledging your humanity, and this honesty can be liberating.

I found that accepting my worry as much as my excitement made the transition smoother.

Experiencing all emotions helps you navigate your new life with authenticity and resilience. It’s perfectly okay to have mixed feelings about the move—after all, growth often comes from discomfort.

Explore Nearby Areas

Exploring nearby areas is like going on a mini-adventure every day. These small explorations add up, slowly painting a detailed map of your new surroundings in your mind and heart.

Consider setting small exploration goals for yourself. Maybe this week, you’ll find the best coffee spot. Next week, it could be scouting out the perfect picnic area. Each discovery not only makes your new place feel more like home but also gives you stories to share, inviting others to see this world through your eyes.

Don’t forget to engage your senses during these explorations. Notice the smells, the sounds, and the sights. These sensory experiences anchor memories, making each place you discover a part of your personal story in this new land.

Exploring not only connects you to your new home but also reignites a sense of wonder and joy in the everyday.

Learn the Local Language

If you’ve moved to a place where the language is different, learning to speak like the locals is not just a skill—it’s a bridge to the heart of the community.

The struggles of pronunciation or grammar are real, I know, but every new word is a step closer to belonging. Plus, it’s truly endearing to locals when they see you making the effort.

• Start with basics: Greetings, numbers, common phrases.
• Use language learning apps: Practical and interactive tools at your fingertips.
• Practice with locals: They’ll likely be happy to help you improve.

Learning the local language immerses you in the culture and connects you with the people around you in a meaningful way. It’s about opening doors to new friendships, experiences, and a deeper understanding of your new home.

Create a Bucket List

Drafting a bucket list is your very own highlight reel of dreams and goals you want to achieve in your new surroundings. It’s like a promise of exciting things to come—a motivator through tough days.

Once I had my list up on my fridge, each tick-off felt like a high-five to myself. From local festivals to landmarks, let your list reflect all that you’re eager to experience.

The beauty of a bucket list lies not just in the ticking off of items but in the experiences and memories you gather along the way. It’s about saying “yes” to life, exploring with purpose, and opening yourself up to the wonders around you.

Plus, it’s a fantastic conversation starter with locals and fellow expats alike.

Adopt a Pet

If your new life allows it, adopting a pet can sprinkle a daily dose of joy into your routine. There’s a lot of truth in the saying that pets make a place feel like home.

Before you make the decision, consider your lifestyle and the commitment involved. Local animal shelters can offer guidance and find you a furry friend that matches your personality and living situation.

Remember, it’s not just about providing a home for them; they’re offering you their loyal companionship in return.

Bringing a pet into your life in a new place can also open up social opportunities. Dog parks, pet meet-ups, or even conversations started over a cute pet can lead to friendships and connections within your community.

The love and laughter a pet brings into your life can be a balm for the loneliness and stress that sometimes come with big moves and life changes.

Practice Gratitude

Embracing gratitude is like turning a light on in the darker corners of our adjusting minds. By focusing on the positives, it’s easier to manage homesickness and appreciate the journey you’re on.

I started a gratitude jar, and dropping in little notes about good moments helped enormously on days that were a bit blue.

• Reflect daily: Find at least one thing you’re grateful for every day.
• Express thanks: To people around you who make your day better.
• Recognize the small victories: From learning a new word to a smile from a neighbor.

Practicing gratitude involves acknowledging and appreciating the good in our lives, which can shift our focus from what we’re missing to the new blessings we’re gaining.

It’s a simple tool with powerful effects on our overall well-being.

Prioritize Sleep

Catching those Z’s is like hitting the reset button for your body and mind. Good sleep strengthens your resilience, sharpens your mind, and stabilizes your emotions—vital ingredients for enjoying and adapting to your new surroundings.

It’s when you sleep that memories consolidate, and learning new things (like the layout of your new neighborhood or phrases in a local language) becomes easier.

And while naps might be tempting, especially when you’re adjusting to a new time zone or schedule, try to establish a consistent sleep routine. Regular sleep and wake times reinforce your body’s internal clock, making quality sleep more attainable.

Prioritizing sleep is a form of self-care that reinforces your capacity to thrive in your new life.

Embrace Nostalgia

Nostalgia has this cozy, warm blanket effect—it can comfort us when we’re feeling out of sorts in a new place. Whether it’s an old movie, music from your high school days, or flipping through a photo album, indulging in a bit of nostalgia can be a delight.

But it’s also about balance. While it’s healthy to reminisce and draw joy from memories, remaining open to creating new memories in your current environment is equally important.

Let nostalgia be a warm embrace, not a tether holding you back from exploring and appreciating the now.

Be Patient With Yourself

Adjusting to a new place doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s perfectly all right. I’ve learned that being gentle with yourself throughout this process is crucial. Some days you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world; other days, not so much.

And you know what? That’s totally normal. Just like a plant takes time to grow, so do we.

Being patient with yourself is about nurturing your personal growth. It’s a reminder that time can be a wonderful healer and teacher, so give yourself the grace to evolve at your own rhythm.

Connect With Other Newcomers

Connecting with other newcomers offers an opportunity to share tips, support each other through the ups and downs, and explore your new surroundings together. There’s comfort in knowing you’re not alone in the experience of building a new life.

You might find these fellow newcomers in language classes, expat groups, or community events. Social media and local forums can also be great resources to find gatherings or clubs.

Sharing experiences with those who are in the same boat can lead to lasting friendships as you bond over shared discoveries and challenges.

Plan Visits From Family and Friends

Having family and friends visit can bridge the gap between your old home and your new one, bringing a piece of your past into your present. Planning these visits gives you something wonderful to look forward to, and it allows your loved ones to become a part of your new journey.

It’s a chance to show them what you love about your new home, from your favorite coffee shop to the park where you unwind.

Express Hopes and Fears

Transparency about what you’re going through is key to navigating the complex emotions of moving. Expressing your hopes and fears not only helps you process your feelings but also allows those around you to offer support and understanding.

It’s okay to admit that you’re excited about the possibilities your new home presents, just as it’s okay to acknowledge the uncertainties or worries that come with such a significant change.

There are plenty of ways to express these feelings: through journaling, conversations with loved ones, or even creative outlets like art or music. Speaking about your worries can diminish their power while sharing your hopes can make them feel more attainable.

Understand the Stages of Grief

Grieving the life you left behind is a natural part of moving to a new place, even when the move is positive.

Familiarizing yourself with the stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—can provide you with a helpful framework to understand your feelings. Remember, these stages aren’t linear; you might move back and forth between them or experience several at once. And that’s perfectly okay.

It’s crucial to recognize that grieving the loss of your old life doesn’t mean you’ve made the wrong decision. Rather, it’s a sign that you’re processing the change and allowing yourself to let go gradually.

Acknowledging these feelings as a normal part of the transition can bring comfort and clarity, easing the path to acceptance and new beginnings.

During this process, be gentle with yourself. Seek out supportive conversations with friends or a counselor who can help you navigate these emotional waters. Understanding grief and its stages can empower you to move through them with grace, ultimately finding peace and excitement in your new surroundings.

Feel Sadness Without Letting It Consume You

It’s all too easy for the blue days to take over. Sadness has its place, but it shouldn’t set up a permanent camp. Learning to experience sadness, give it its moment, and then set it aside is a balancing act.

One thing that helped me was allocating time to feel sad, then consciously shifting my focus to gratitude or action.

• Recognize your sadness: Give yourself time to acknowledge your feelings.
• Engage in activities that bring joy: Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or socializing.
• Don’t isolate: Reach out and share your feelings with others when sadness hits.

Identify the Root Cause

Sometimes homesickness lingers because there’s a deeper issue at play. Pinpointing the exact reasons for your discomfort can lead to more effective solutions. Reflecting on this helped me find that it wasn’t just missing my family; I also craved familiarity in my daily environment.

Understanding this, I could work on making my new space feel like home.

• Do some soul-searching: What specifically do you miss or feel uneasy about?
• Talk it out: A conversation with a friend or counselor can shed light on underlying issues.
• Make targeted changes: Once you know the root cause, you can address it more directly.

Remember, identifying the root cause of your feelings, much like experiencing all emotions, is a part of self-discovery that allows for more thoughtful and impactful actions toward settling in and creating a fulfilling life in your new home.

Build New Routines

Stability can often be found in the rhythm of daily routines. When your world has been shaken up by a move, crafting new routines is like laying down anchor in your day. For me, integrating a morning walk and weekly market visits gave my days structure and something predictable to rely on.

• Morning habits: Start your day with intention, be it meditation, exercise, or reading.
• Work-life balance: Define clear boundaries to separate your work from your downtime.
• Evening rituals: Unwind with activities that signal the end of your day, like cooking or journaling.

Building new routines, as previously discussed, complements your efforts in creating a new life and can enhance your overall well-being as you adapt to your new environment.

Embrace Your New Identity

Moving to a new place often means transforming—a shedding of old skins and stepping into a new version of yourself. This transformation isn’t about leaving behind who you are but rather expanding to include new facets of your identity shaped by new experiences and cultures.

Embracing this evolving identity can be exhilarating, allowing you to explore parts of yourself perhaps previously unrealized.

This journey can also lead you to redefine your values, beliefs, and what truly matters to you. Engage deeply with your new surroundings—let the music, customs, stories, and the land itself teach you.

As you do, you’ll find that your new identity is not just about a change in location but a richer, more encompassing understanding of yourself and the world.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

There’s no shame in seeking help when you need it. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the weight of the transition can be overwhelming. Talking to a professional can offer new perspectives and coping strategies. I’ve encouraged friends who’ve struggled with moves to reach out, and it’s made a real difference for them.

• Recognize the signs: If you’re feeling stuck or unable to cope, don’t hesitate to seek help.
• Look for local resources: Therapists, counselors, or support groups in your area.
• Prioritize your mental health: Your well-being is as important as your physical health.

Seeking professional help, as part of embracing new experiences and acknowledging all emotions, is about taking care of your mental health and ensuring you have the support you need during this significant life change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Thoughts

Think of these tips like a friend’s advice—they’re here when you need a little help to push through. Moving is a change, and it’s normal to miss what’s familiar. But you’re doing something brave, and I respect that a lot.

Take each day as it comes, and don’t rush yourself. Before you know it, you’ll find warmth and joy in the corners of this new life you’re carving out. And that’s something to look forward to, isn’t it?