Once classes started, I thought I was doing better. I typically thrive with routines, but still, homesickness would creep in during more quiet moments: a rainy day spent indoors, a stranger walking past wearing a Yankees hat, or just simply after a difficult day. It’s important to understand that homesickness isn’t a sign of weakness or a lack of adaptability. It’s a natural response to being in a new environment, and almost everyone experiences it at some point. 

Ferry from Manly Beach, one of my favorite views of Sydney Harbour Bridge (pictured) and the Opera House (not pictured). I live close to the water, so this ride always reminded me of home. 

Here’s what helped me manage my homesickness: 

1. Create a routine. Establishing a sense of normalcy in a foreign place can ease the transition. Whether it’s a morning walk, a regular coffee run (for people thinking of going to Sydney – Fork & Grind is the best!), a weekly FaceTime call with family, whatever it may be, having something stable to hold onto helps. 

2. Stay connected, but not too much. It’s easy to rely on constant communication with people back home, but too much can make you feel more disconnected from your new surroundings. Balance is key! For me, this meant only calling my parents once a week and getting in touch with friends occasionally. Having my friends on social media and in group chats made it easier for me to stay updated with my friends’ lives, so I didn’t feel the need to call them weekly. Doing this helped me to immerse myself in my new environment, without feeling like I’m completely ‘letting go’ of home. 

3. Immerse yourself in the local culture. Exploring your host city, making new friends, and engaging in cultural activities can help you feel more rooted in your new environment, reducing feelings of homesickness. This may be site-specific to Sydney, but the CEA CAPA team introduced us to a ‘TeamUp’ calendar that was filled with local activities and festivals happening in the area. Whenever the bustling city felt overwhelming, I would check the calendar for events in my area and invite a few friends along! One of my favorite experiences was free morning yoga sessions under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, where the view of the Opera House was absolutely magical! Afterwards, my friends and I would explore the market down the street.  

Mental Health Abroad: A Hidden Challenge 

Before going abroad, I thought my mental health would be fine. I’ve had my fair share of stressful situations before, and Sydney was supposed to be an adventure, right? But what I didn’t account for was how isolating it can be to navigate mental health struggles in an unfamiliar place. 

When you’re abroad, the usual support systems you rely on – close friends, family, therapists – are often far away, and it can be difficult to find mental health resources or even recognize when you need help. For me, there were days when the pressure to “make the most” of my experience and the expectations I had placed on myself became overwhelming. 

Here are a few things I wish I had known about managing mental health abroad: 

1. Mental health issues don’t take a vacation. Just because you’re in a beautiful, exciting new place doesn’t mean you won’t struggle. It’s okay to feel down or overwhelmed at times, even if everyone around you seems to be thriving. 

2. Seek out mental health resources early. Whether it’s a counselor at your host institution, online therapy services, or local support groups, make sure you’re aware of the mental health resources available to you before you need them. 

3. Talk to your peers. Sometimes the best support comes from others who are going through the same thing. Don’t be afraid to open up to fellow study abroad students about how you’re feeling. Chances are, they’ve been there too. 

    

The Blue Mountains, on a CEA CAPA excursion we had the chance to hike and explore these beautiful mountains. Hiking was not only a great way to exercise but was also a great place to connect with fellow CEA CAPA students which helped to create a safety net while abroad. 

What I Wish I Knew Before Going Abroad 

Reflecting on my time in Sydney, there are a few things I wish I had known before setting off on my study abroad journey. If you’re preparing for your own adventure, keep these in mind: 

1. It’s okay to not love every moment. In fact, you probably won’t. There’s an unspoken pressure to enjoy every second of studying abroad, but the truth is, it’s normal to have bad days. Don’t feel guilty if you’re not having the time of your life every single day. 

2. Your mental health matters more than ticking off a travel bucket list. It’s tempting to fill every weekend with trips and activities, but sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is to take a day to rest and recharge. 

3. Preparation is key. From knowing where to seek help if you need it to planning how you’ll stay connected with loved ones, the more prepared you are for the emotional challenges of study abroad, the smoother the experience will be.

    

My roommate (left) and I (right). Forming a bond with a roommate can be a great way to combat homesickness early on. It can be mutually beneficial! Not only will you live together, but you look out for each other. 

Prioritize Your Mental Health 

If I could give one piece of advice to students preparing for study abroad, it would be this: prioritize your mental health. Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity for growth, but that growth often comes with emotional ups and downs. It’s crucial to take care of your mental well-being, just as you would your physical health. 

Before you leave, take the time to research mental health resources in your host country, develop coping strategies for homesickness, and set realistic expectations for yourself. Most importantly, remember that it’s okay to seek help if you need it. 

Studying abroad in Sydney was one of the most transformative experiences of my life, but it wasn’t without its challenges. By being mindful of your mental health and knowing that homesickness is a normal part of the journey, you can make the most of your time abroad while taking care of yourself in the process.