The holiday season can be a difficult one for those who live abroad, away from the ones they love. In fact, even those who have the opportunity to travel home for the holidays can struggle with more intense feelings of homesickness as they are reminded of what they have left behind and what they will soon have to part with once again. 

Since homesickness is only worsened by feelings of loneliness, it is the company of other people (e.g., new friends, roommates, and partners) that can make the biggest difference. Earlier this year, as part of ‘The Homesickness Series’, I shared some advice to help those missing home. Now, I am turning to another audience, addressing friends and partners to share how they can support their loved ones when they are feeling homesick. 

(All the ideas listed below have been tried and tested, thanks to my wonderful husband.)   

• Create a compilation of videos from friends and family

During the pandemic, I received one of the most meaningful and moving birthday presents: a 20-minute video compilation of my friends and family wishing me a happy birthday. Although we were continents apart, it felt as though everyone had come together to celebrate with me. 

To create this, all you need is a few contact details of the people who matter most to your loved one (and some basic editing skills). You can then put together a long video for any occasion, not just a birthday. A simple “We’re thinking about you” or “We’re proud of you” can mean the world when you’re missing home.

• Engrave their homes on jewellery 

A few years ago, I was moved to tears when I received a painting of two maps (Bulgaria and the UK) intertwined in two hearts and inscribed with the message “Home is where the heart is”. This painting has been hanging on my wall for nearly five years now, and it is still as special to me today as it was when I first received it. However, I recently came across something even better than a hanging picture – engraved jewellery from Exchange Life.

While the painting reminds me of my loved ones when I look at it, my necklace allows me to carry them close to my heart and feel their support wherever I am and whatever I am doing. In addition to the engravings of the maps on the front, my necklace also hides a special custom message on the back. This makes it the ideal present for someone with two (or even three) homes or for those who are in a long-distance or intercultural relationship.

• Take them somewhere familiar 

Sometimes, all you need is to smell the scent of your country’s cuisine and to hear your mother tongue. When going back home is not an option, going to a restaurant that allows you to immerse yourself in your culture (or a familiar one) can be a great alternative. While there are very few Bulgarian restaurants in the UK, I found that visiting Greek, Persian, and Turkish restaurants made me feel a little warmer. 

If there is nowhere you can take them, you might just have to get creative and find a recipe you can make at home. (Even if you fail at it, the gesture in itself will make a difference.) 

• Show them what the new place has to offer

It is normal to feel homesick, miss your loved ones and feel uprooted. This will happen to everyone who moves abroad. However, the length of time they experience homesickness will vary depending on how quickly they immerse themselves in the new country and build a life they love. 

As their friend or partner, you can help shorten this time by showing them everything you love. Encourage (but do not force) them to experience new things and allow them to see what makes their new home unique. 

According to the World Migration Report 2022, there are only 281 million people residing in a country different to the one in which they were born. That’s only 3.6% of the world’s population!

Therefore, make sure you tell your loved one that they are strong, brave, and courageous. 

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