Homesickness is a natural feeling of loneliness or disorientation that occurs when a person is separated from familiar people, routines and environments. Homesickness can occur at any age, but is especially prevalent in children who are separated from their parents or primary caregivers. Teenagers may also experience strong feelings of homesickness when beginning college studies in another city or state. Both children and adults may experience homesickness when they move to unfamiliar surroundings.

People who are homesick are often sad or even depressed. Homesickness tends to become worse when a person has free time, such as early in the morning, just before bed or during periods of rest. People who are experiencing other trauma – such as a divorce in the family or the loss of a loved one – may be especially vulnerable to homesickness.

Children are particularly likely to display symptoms related to their homesickness, including withdrawing from others, refusing to participate in activities or engaging in behaviors designed to seek attention.

People who are homesick rarely require visits to a physician or medical treatment. Over time, homesickness typically subsides as the person gradually makes new friends and becomes more familiar and comfortable with the new surroundings. Occasionally, homesickness may be so severe that a patient requires professional help to deal with the associated emotions.

Homesickness cannot always be prevented. However, people can take preparatory steps that may help them to weather the period of transition that occurs when someone leaves familiar surroundings. In particular, parents can take several steps to help children combat homesickness (e.g., planning practice separations, visiting the place where the child will be staying).