Holidays Abroad and Missing Home? Here’s How to Cope Emotionally
Spending the holidays in another country can be exciting, but it can also be hard. You might enjoy your new surroundings, but still feel something’s missing. That “something” is often home.
Missing home during the holidays is common. You may miss your family, your traditions, your food, or just the feeling of being where you belong. The good news is, there are simple ways to feel better and enjoy the season—wherever you are.
Why Holidays Make You Miss Home More
Holidays are full of memories. You think of past celebrations, favorite meals, or being with family and friends. When you’re far away, it’s easy to feel left out or lonely.
Signs you’re missing home:
- Feeling sad, even when things are going well
- Crying more often
- Wanting to sleep or stay alone
- Missing your family or childhood home
- Not enjoying things like you usually do
Considerate that missing home is normal can help you deal with it improved.
1. Say It Out Loud: “I’m Missing Home”
Trying to hide your feelings often makes them stronger. It’s okay to admit you’re feeling sad or lonely.
Why it helps:
Naming your feeling—like “I’m missing home”—makes it easier to care for yourself. You don’t have to pretend everything’s fine.
Try this:
Say it to yourself, write it in a journal, or tell a friend. Being honest with yourself is the first step.
2. Create Your Own Traditions While Abroad
Even if you’re not home, you can still make the holidays special.
How to do it:
- Cook a meal you usually eat at home
- Watch a holiday movie you love
- Light candles or decorate your space
- Plan a video call with your family
Why this works:
Doing something familiar helps you feel closer to home—even if you’re far away.
3. Talk to Other People, Even If You Feel Lonely
When you’re missing home, you might want to be alone. But connecting with others can help you feel better.
Try this:
- Join a holiday event near you
- Talk to classmates or coworkers
- Invite someone for a meal or coffee
- Find a group of people who are also far from home
Why it matters:
Talking to even one person can reduce loneliness and lift your mood.
4. Use Technology to Stay Connected to Home
Texting or calling your family and friends helps ease the feeling of missing home. But try not to stay attached to your phone.
What helps:
- Plan video calls on special days
- Send short voice notes or pictures
- Make a family photo album online
- Avoid checking your phone too often
5. Start a Gratitude Habit
When you’re missing home, your brain often focuses on what’s not there. Gratitude helps shift that focus.
How to do it:
Every day, write down 3 things you’re thankful for. These could be small things—like good food, a kind message, or a sunny day.
Why it helps:
Gratitude improves your mood and makes it easier to handle stress and sadness.
6. Move Your Body and Get Outside
Staying indoors too much can make homesickness worse.
Try this:
- Take a short walk
- Visit a local park or market
- Try a simple workout or stretch at home
- Do something active every day
Why it matters:
Movement helps your brain release feel-good chemicals. It also gives you a mental break when you’re missing home.
7. Plan Something to Look Forward To
Having something fun to think about can reduce sadness.
Ideas to try:
- Plan a weekend trip nearby
- Set a small goal for next month
- Make a countdown to your next trip home
- Buy yourself a holiday gift
Why it helps:
Looking forward to something brings hope—and that’s powerful when you’re feeling low.
8. Talk to a Therapist if You’re Struggling
If missing home is making it hard to eat, sleep, or enjoy anything, it might be time to talk to a professional.
What to do:
- Check if your school or job offers free counseling
- Use online therapy apps or websites
- Find a counselor near about you who know your language
- Contact a local helpline
Frequently Asked Question(s)
Is it normal to feel homesick during the holidays?
Yes. Holidays are full of memories and emotions. It’s common to miss home more than usual during this time.
What can I do quickly if I suddenly feel homesick?
Call a friend, write down how you feel, or go for jogging. Small actions help calm your mind.
Will I stop missing home over time?
Yes, usually. As you build new routines and make new memories, the feeling becomes easier to manage.
Final Thoughts
Missing home during the holidays is hard—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Simple actions like talking to someone, creating small traditions, and taking care of your body and mind can make a big difference.
It’s okay to feel sad. It’s okay to cry. But it’s also okay to smile, laugh, and enjoy the moment you’re in.
The holidays may look different this year—but with the right support, they can still feel warm, meaningful, and full of hope.