Homesickness

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Homesickness

Homesickness (/ˈhoʊmˌsɪknəs/) is a complex emotional response to being away from home. It's characterized by a longing for familiar surroundings and can be accompanied by symptoms such as anxiety and depression.

Etymology

The term "homesickness" comes from the combination of the words "home" and "sickness". The word "home" (/hoʊm/) is of Germanic origin, from an Indo-European root meaning 'dwelling place'. The word "sickness" (/ˈsɪknəs/) is from Old English 'sēocnes', meaning 'illness' or 'disease'.

Symptoms

Homesickness can manifest in a variety of ways, including:

  • Anxiety: A feeling of unease, such as worry or fear.
  • Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.
  • Loneliness: A complex and usually unpleasant emotional response to isolation or lack of companionship.

Related Terms

  • Culture shock: The feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, or set of attitudes.
  • Nostalgia: A sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.
  • Separation anxiety: Anxiety provoked by separation or the threat of separation from one's home or from people to whom the individual has a strong emotional attachment.

Treatment

Treatment for homesickness often involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help individuals develop coping strategies for their feelings of homesickness. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety or depression.

External links

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