October and November are the two hardest months of fall semester for most people. The weather starts to get colder, club events need planning, and midterms “week” at BC is pretty much its own season. And, to make it worse, as much as you hate to admit it, everyone starts missing their families as the holidays get closer. For those of you who were able to make it home for Columbus Day weekend, consider yourself lucky. The majority of my friends and I were too swamped with work for going home to even be considered.
I was incredibly lucky because I had a seamless adjustment to college. I was always happy to be home, but I never felt like I needed to get away from BC. So last week when I found myself randomly in tears while trying to study in Bapst (which for the record, was one of the worst experiences I’ve had here), I could not figure out why I was feeling that way. I finally realized I was actually homesick. It’s a hard feeling to overcome, because nothing will completely make it go away except for spending some time at home. However, here are a few things you can do to get you through to Thanksgiving.
1. Make time to call your family
I talk to my family pretty consistently, but I sometimes forget to call for a while and that’s when I really start to miss them. Even if it’s only once a week, I guarantee you can find some free time to call home. Call in between classes, or for freshmen on Newton, waiting for the bus makes for a great time to fit in a phone call.
2. Don’t be afraid to admit you miss home
It is so easy to fall into the trap and believe that all students have their lives completely together, except for you. This is not true! Everyone is struggling with something, and no one wants to be the first one to talk about it. Talk to one of your roommates or a good friend in your classes. Chances are they feel the same way, or they did at one point and can offer some advice.
3. Spend time doing something you love
For all the time we spend running around and participating in events, how much do we do because we actually enjoy it? Spend some time this week doing something you love to do, or something you’ve always wanted to try. It is a welcome break from your busy schedule, and it will leave you recharged for the work that lies ahead.
4. Put yourself first
The fear of disappointing other can leave many people overwhelmed, unhappy, and unhealthy. Before caving to the pressure of more volunteer hours, a new research project, or overloading your schedule, take a moment to think of why you are doing that. If the answer is that it truly interests you, then go for it! However, if you really just have a hard time saying no, explain that you would love to help, but just don’t have the time right now.
**If you are feeling overwhelmed everyday, you may be experiencing more than just homesickness. If you are finding it hard to carry on your daily obligations, you may want to consider talking to a professional on campus. They are wonderful resources that will do everything they can to get you back to being your healthiest self.
Health Services: 617-552-3225
Women’s Center: 617-552-3489
University Counseling Services: 617-552-3310
Photo Sources:
http://www.simpleluxeliving.com/mini-meditation-breathe-and-reconnect/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andrea-wachter/depression_b_6894546.html