THE EMOTIONAL CHALLENGE OF HOMESICKNESS
Nobody can deny that homesickness after relocating has a detrimental effect on mental health and wellbeing. The a feeling of stress caused by separation from people or places that we love can be devastating.
The excitement of moving to a new country, full of possibilities and new adventures is quickly doused by the onset of homesickness, a common problem facing many people but not often talked about. It manifests in various ways and usually affects individual people differently.
Feelings of being isolated, lonely, insecure, to disturbed sleeping patterns, anger, nausea and worry, amongst others are symptoms of homesickness. The issue is real and needs to be addressed to avoid the risk of more serious mental health issues.
This problem is not just limited to those who have recently emmigrated. The Australian government has identified this as a major problem and has dedicated a whole page on their immigration website to help people deal with the problem. The Otago University in New Zealand, has also found that this is a common problem affecting over 70% of students studying in a foreign country, and they often also suffer from being homesick.
Africa is thought to be one of the hardest continents to emmigrate from. Despite the many valid reasons for leaving the place that people once called “home”, one fact of life will always seem to come back to haunt those leaving the magical landscapes of Africa.
A British writer and journalist, Brian Jackman , once wrote, "Africa changes you forever, like nowhere on earth. Once you have been there, you will never be the same"
If the statement above resonates with you and you find yourself feeling the negative effects of missing home, then you are not alone.
THE HEALING POWER OF THE ART PHOTOGRAPHY ON YOUR WALL
A proven solution to ease the discomfort and stress of homesickness could be as simple as the artwork on your wall.
Scenes that remind one of familiar places back home, especially those that depict unspoiled nature, have been scientifically proven to have significant mental health benifits and are highly effective in reducing stress related conditions.
Choose a photograph that is meaningful to you, especially if it reminds you of happy times spent with loved ones or invokes some sort of nostalgia. Your photograph will not only allow you to meditate and relieve the anxiety, but also becomes a talking point when people come to visit.
Kalahari - Northern Cape
Sharing stories with people that feel the same way as you do, helps you to form a bond that is critical to both of you to overcome your homesickness and form new friendships.
Homesickness cannot be cured overnight. Be kind to yourself and remember that it is perfectly normal to be feeling the way that you do. Try to get your family and friends back home to understand that it takes time and lots of support from them too.
All too often we feel that we are going to be judged for admitting that the move that we were so looking forward to, and one that we posted so many positive things about on social media, did not turn out to be as good as we made it sound.
How does one admit that instead of being happy not having to deal with load shedding and crime, we suddenly find ourselves being desperately miserable in our new environment.
Unfortunately, for those who have not experienced the grief and anxiety of homesickness, understanding how you feel may be beyond their comprehension. Don’t be mad at them if they judge you. You still need them and they still care for you.
In time things should return to normal and then all will be well.
PERSONALISE YOUR SPACE TO REFLECT YOUR STYLE
According to Paula Madrid, a psychologist, “homesickness usually lasts anywhere from a few days to several months. Ignoring the feelings associated with it and allowing them to fester can lead to “severe anxiety and depression, as well as serious adjustment disorders.”
She advocates making your living space cosy and visitor friendly. A place of sanctuary.
Most importantly, you need to make it feel like home with elements that are nostalgic. Then try adding something new to help you transition into your new environment.
Interaction with other people is very important and once your space is decorated with things that reflect your style and personality, your new friends will be able to get to know you better and conversations will become more meaningful.
The sound of laughter will surely finally return and echo down the hallway.
ELEMENTS OF NATURE: Success Stories in Overcoming Stress
Biophillic design has become the new norm. Its popularity can be attributed to its ability to reduce stress and improve cognitive function. Scenes and elements of nature have a soothing effect on our mental state, a fact that has been well established and guided by many research projects around the world.
It is important to to note that research has found that bright coloured artworks that are far removed from what we would usually find in nature, especially those that are very busy or abstract in design, have a negative effect and should be avoided in biophillic design
Meditative artworks depicting nature, are especially important. One viable option is to choose black and white artwork, not only for its timeless look, but also for its ability to fit into any decor without intruding. Black and white photography done right, is regarded as minimalistic, meditative and nostalgic.
Whereas colour invokes certain emotions that may not be right for your state of mind, black and white is both calming and stylish.
Western Cape - Overberg
FINALLY
Don’t be tempted into buying cheap artwork. Remember why you moved there in the first place. Your aim was to improve your life, so avoid lowering your standards. This could have a further negative effect on your wellbeing.
Instead, invest in your happiness and buy the best that you can afford. Quality artwork not only lifts your spirit, it makes a statement about you and what is important in your life. It is much more than a financial investment, it’s all about you!
The artwork on your walls creates an ambiance in the room that is a true reflection of your soul. It is an emotional connection to that which reminds you of special moments in your life.
Surround yourself with artwork that invokes beautiful memories of places that you will cherish all the days of your life. These memories are a valuable source of comfort that can free you from the pain of homesickness.
Quality artwork remains one of the most cost effective ways of improving the value of your room, a tangible connection with the things that you love.
The best part is that once you have overcome the effects of homesickness and adapted to your new environment, you will still enjoy looking at your favourite artwork on the walls of your cosy space for many years to come.
West Coast - South Africa
