Homesickness is a mental distress, characterized by feelings of depression and anxiety, and a longing for home or family environments. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/homesickness?&qsrc= The term ‘homesick’ was developed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, from the term ‘nostalgia’, since individuals experiencing homesickness will often have nostalgic feelings for familiar people and objects.http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/nostalgia

Individuals often experience homesickness after being away for an extended period of time, although it is possible for feelings of homesickness to manifest at any point during an absence from familiar settings. Homesickness can be marked by mental and physical symptoms, and they can range from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing only momentary longing for home and others experiencing symptoms severe enough for them to abandon their new surroundings and return home. http://www.wisegeek.com/how-can-i-avoid-feeling-homesick.htm

Although it is thought to effect children most, homesickness can occur in any age group. Major life changes and stresses, like a move, divorce, or death in the family can exacerbate the feelings associated with being homesick. As individuals who are coping with changes or loss, may feel more strongly attached to familiar objects and surroundings. http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/homesickness.html#

Homesickness is typically resolved as new surroundings become more familiar. However, mental health professionals strongly suggest seeking help with feelings of homesickness to discover the root of the problem and find methods to treat it. http://www.wisegeek.com/how-can-i-avoid-feeling-homesick.htm

Homesickness can vary in its degree of severity, but is typically characterized by:

• nostalgia for home or familiar surroundings
• sadnesss
• Depression
• anger/frustration
• withdrawal
• physical symptoms, like headache or stomachache
• In extreme cases, thoughts of hopelessness and suicide http://www.wisegeek.com/how-can-i-avoid-feeling-homesick.htm

Depending on the situation, treatment options for homesickness can vary, from surrounding oneself with familiar objects to counseling for absences that will span an extended period of time. Some treatments for homesickness can include:

• Leaving home for a short period of time before taking leave for an extended period. If an individual is set to leave home for some time, they can prepare themselves by leaving for shorter periods of time, like a weekend away from home.
• Staying in contact. An individual can keep in touch with the people they are most familiar with by calling, writing letters/email, or using any form of available communication to receive updates from home and discuss their new surroundings.
• Staying active. Feelings of homesickness can be worsened if an individual has a lot of idle time to sit and think about the things they miss most. Staying active can help distract from feelings of being homesick
• Seeking help. If someone is experiencing homesickness, they should seek out an adult or mental health professional to discuss their feelings and review possible treatment options. http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/homesickness.html#