Moving to a new country brings excitement, but also deep feelings of missing what you left behind. Missing home, feeling out of place and struggling with loneliness are all normal parts of starting over, and it’s okay to feel that way.
Many immigrants fear that by being in a new place, they’re losing parts of who they are. But identity isn’t something you leave at the airport. It evolves. Your connection to your roots can actually become stronger when you’re away from home because now you’re choosing to carry it with you. You might speak your mother tongue, wear different clothing and eat different food. That doesn’t mean you’re forgotten. It means you’re adapting, and adaptation is survival; it’s a skill.
A unique part of immigrant homesickness is how it shows up across generations. For example, first generation immigrants such as parents and newcomers often experience deep loss and nostalgia. They miss specific people, places and routines.
The second generation, or for those who moved young or were born in a new country, might feel disconnected from both cultures. They might not miss a place but instead miss a sense of clarity or belonging they never fully had.
The gap and the emotional experience can sometimes cause friction. Parents may not understand their kids’ identity crisis, and youth may not fully understand the grief of the parents who carry it. Acknowledging this builds compassion with immigrant families.
Studies show that up to 55% of international students in Canada report challenges during adjustment. It’s completely normal to love your new life in Canada and still feel moments of quiet uncertainty or emotional disconnection at the same time.
Research shows homesickness isn’t just emotional. The stress you feel isn’t a weakness; it’s a part of adjusting to a completely new life.
Here are some simple but powerful strategies backed by research and expert advice that can help:
– Stay connected with home, schedule regular video calls or share things from your new life. It keeps your support system close and eases loneliness.
– Settling into a new culture doesn’t mean leaving yours behind. Cook family recipes, celebrate holidays from your home country, attend local cultural events, or invite friends to experience your traditions.
– Give yourself some time and grace. Feeling sad or even crying doesn’t mean you aren’t strong. It means you cared, and caring shows you’re human.
– Even though things may feel upside down now, over time you’ll build connections in your new place, and home will become something more than just one spot on the map. Many immigrants find their lives enriched by a blend of traditions, friendships and experiences from both worlds.
Helpful reads and sources:
Five Expert Backed Coping Strategies
Balancing Home and Host Culture Boosts Wellbeing
Missing home doesn’t mean you failed; you love deeply. Accepting that emotion helps you heal and remember what time and care and connections you’ll create in a meaningful life that carries both where you came from and where you are now.