Why am I feeling so homesick as a high school senior?
Honestly, I’ve been crying for nearly an hour over it. I’m possibly moving to Miami, which is quite a distance from where I currently live—definitely more than an hour away. Even though I don’t have the best relationship with my mom, the kid inside me will miss her. And I know I’ll really miss my big-headed brother.
I’ve always wanted to get away, but now I’m feeling anxious and scared about it. I’m not the most outgoing person, so I’m worried about making friends on my own, especially when I’ll be living independently (hopefully with a roommate). Every time I think about it, I get really emotional.
It’s completely normal to feel homesick, especially when facing a big change like moving away for school. Even though you’ve had your share of frustrations with your family, it’s okay to feel a sense of loss when you think about not being around them as much. You’re at a pivotal moment in your life, and it’s natural to feel anxious about leaving the familiar behind.
The emotions you’re experiencing are valid, and transitioning into adulthood brings up a lot of mixed feelings. Remember that it’s okay to miss your family, even if your relationship with them is complicated. The thought of being independent can seem exciting and daunting at the same time, especially if you’re not very sociable.
Making new friends can be challenging, but college is a great place to meet people who share your interests. You might find that many others are feeling the same way, and you could bond over those shared experiences. Plus, living with a roommate might help ease some of that apprehension.
When those feelings start to overwhelm you, it can help to talk about it with someone you trust or even write out your thoughts. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and many people have faced similar uncertainties. Take it one step at a time, and allow yourself to find comfort in both the excitement of new opportunities and the love for your family, however complicated it might be.