Spending the holidays with family in India, many Indian nationals returning to New Zealand are confronted with the difficult reality of homesickness. For many of us, especially students, coming back to an empty room feels like stepping into a world that’s suddenly so quiet. There’s no one to talk to, no warm hugs waiting for you, and the absence of those comforting, familiar sounds makes the silence unbearable. The thought of not being able to indulge in your favourite comfort food—aloo parantha dipped in malai, a hot plate of savoury idli sambar, or the joy of relishing daal bhaat—hits harder than expected. And then there’s the street shopping, the vibrant energy of bargaining and picking up treasures, now just a memory. It’s not just about the food or the shopping; it’s the deep ache of missing the little things that made home, well, home.
New Zealand Immigration’s website outlines that homesickness can manifest in various ways, both physically and emotionally. The mental toll often includes an overwhelming preoccupation with thoughts of home, making it hard to concentrate on daily activities like work or study. For some, the sadness and longing for home can extend for weeks, even months. While most people adjust over time, about 1 in 10 experience long-term feelings of homesickness. It’s important to recognise these emotions and seek support when needed.
Signs of Homesickness
Homesickness can manifest through a combination of physical, mental, behavioural, and emotional symptoms. You might experience some, or all, of these:
Physical Symptoms:
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Stomach discomfort like diarrhoea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Low energy levels
Mental Symptoms:
- Constantly thinking about home
- Obsessive thoughts that disrupt daily activities
- Negative feelings about your new environment
- Forgetting simple tasks
- A sense of disinterest in what’s around you
Behavioural Symptoms:
- Avoiding physical activity or exercise
- Putting off responsibilities
- Seeking attention
Emotional Symptoms:
- Feeling depressed or unhappy
- A sense of insecurity or lack of control
- Nervousness and anxiety
- Deep loneliness
While these symptoms can ease with time, it’s natural to feel homesick now and then, particularly during quieter moments—like when you wake up or before going to bed, or during solitary activities such as reading or listening to music.
Coping with Homesickness
There are several ways to ease the feeling of homesickness and help adjust to your new environment:
-
Write Down Your Reasons for Moving: Reflect on your goals, hopes, and expectations. A written list can remind you why you made the move and help shift your mindset towards the future.
-
Remember That Home is Always There: It can be comforting to remind yourself that home is just a phone call or plane ride away. While you may feel the urge to return, be mindful of the full picture and the challenges of home life that may fade from memory.
-
Stay in Touch, But Don't Overdo It: Calling family and friends back home can offer comfort, but be cautious about overdoing it. Too much communication can hinder your ability to connect with those around you in New Zealand.
-
Keep an Open Mind: Embrace new opportunities. Over time, as you meet new people and try new things, your life will gradually feel more fulfilling. Patience and positivity are key.
-
Explore and Connect with Your New Environment: Take time to learn about your new surroundings. The more connected you feel to New Zealand, the less likely homesickness will take hold.
When Homesickness Turns into Depression
At times, distinguishing between homesickness and depression can be difficult, especially if both occur simultaneously. Depression typically involves:
- Persistent sadness, fatigue, and restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Increased anxiety
- A significant drop in energy
- Difficulty concentrating and sleeping
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If these feelings continue for more than two weeks and don’t improve with time or changes in your environment, it’s essential to seek professional help.
Mental Health Support in New Zealand
New Zealand’s healthcare system provides a strong focus on mental well-being, with several services available to help:
-
Depression Helpline: Available 24/7, offering support from trained counselors.
Phone: 0800 111 757 | Text: 4202
-
Anxiety Helpline: For those dealing with anxiety or panic attacks.
Phone: 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)
-
The Lowdown: A resource dedicated to helping young people understand and cope with depression and anxiety. They offer free counselling services.
Phone: 0800 111 757 | Text: 5626
Reducing Homesickness by Engaging with Your Community
To reduce feelings of isolation, try to connect with your community. There may be others from your home country who’ve been through similar experiences and can offer guidance. Building relationships with those around you will foster a sense of belonging.
Ways to connect include:
- Joining community groups
- Reaching out to other migrants
- Getting to know your co-workers
- Engaging in local sports or hobbies
- Taking a class
Settling In: Understanding the Emotional Stages
All new migrants experience a range of emotions while settling into a new country. Recognising these stages can make it easier to navigate the challenges of homesickness. Over time, with patience and support, the feeling of homesickness will gradually fade, and New Zealand will begin to feel like home.
Leave a Comment