Homesickness plagues CU freshmen

With the start of the school year, it is not uncommon for many freshmen students to become homesick.

The school mentality sets in, and many students
find themselves overwhelmed with the transition to college.

Homesickness is often referred to as separation anxiety and can affect people in a variety of ways.

"Some students may eat their meals by themselves. Other students may resort to drinking or drugs to avoid that feeling of loneliness. And a small percentage of students may fall into a depression state," said Julie Yun, CU Clinical Psychologist.

It’s a different environment, harder classes and new people so it’s no surprise that students are feeling the pains of the unfamiliar.

"The excitement is wearing off and now I am starting to miss home more and more," said CU freshmen Laura Schlueter. “I miss my parents and their cooking. I have never been away from home this long.”

Students affected by homesickness are urged to talk with counselors on campus to help counteract those thoughts. But there is a lot that students can do to
fight those feelings.

"Get involved in your school. It will help students make friends and keep them busy, said Yun. "Another big thing is to make sure that you are getting enough sleep, it will help clear your mind."

The University of Colorado offers over 300 clubs on campus for students to participate in. Getting involved in school activities may help keep those creeping feelings of homesickness away.

"The feeling of homesickness can affect anybody, it is a very common thing.
The important thing is to have a balance between that which is familiar and that
of which is new," said Yun.

Despite the feeling of homesickness, Laura is optimistic about her future here at CU.

"I know that this feeling will pass. There is a lot to look forward to," said Laura.

Counselors on campus urge students to realize that college is a time to step out of your comfort zone and the transition will take some time to get used to. If
students need some further assistance they can visit the CU Counseling and Psychological Services located in the Center for Community.