My student exchange program is the worst thing ever as of now
Hi, I’m Evan, I just started a student exchange to Brazil at start of the year. I don’t really think I’ve been coping with the big change as I’m from somewhere entirely different and I don’t think I can let go of my life back home. I’ve been worried a lot about my friendships and really really homesick and I don’t know how to deal with it. I’m staying with a family at the moment who are an older couple and I don’t think they exactly understand my troubles as I can’t speak Portuguese I’m really struggling and my actual parents aren’t awake when I am awake due to the time difference so I can’t talk to them about it. I don’t really know what to do. Honestly any advice is good advice but I just feel very alone.
I have a history of SA and past addiction to nicotine and lots of this has been coming back due to the stress. If anyone can talk or give me advice I’d be very appreciative:)
@evan07
Thank you for sharing, Evan. It sounds like you're going through a lot right now, adjusting to a new environment and feeling homesick. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed by such a significant change, especially when you're far away from home and facing language barriers.
Feeling alone and struggling with homesickness is tough, especially when you're unable to communicate with your family due to the time difference. It's important to remember that it's okay to feel this way, and you're not alone in your experience.
Dealing with past challenges such as SA and addiction can make adjusting to new situations even more difficult. It's understandable that these feelings may resurface during times of stress.
Seeking support from others, whether it's finding someone who speaks your language, connecting with other exchange students who may be experiencing similar feelings, or reaching out to a listener, counselor or mental health professional, can be helpful in coping with homesickness and adjusting to your new environment.
Take things one step at a time and be gentle with yourself as you navigate this transition. Remember that it's okay to ask for help and lean on others for support during this time. You're not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help you through this challenging period. I'm here if you need anything, take care! ❤️
@evan07
Taking this step is a huge one that many simply do not take on so kudos fo taking this step.
Yes the whole difference thing is a lot to take in and i hope you can find ways to adapt and learn and absorb all this opportunity gives. It is only normal to be homesick and second guessing your decision.
The more you let it bother you and think it is better if you stayed home etc...... the more you will struggle....by opening up and tell yourself you are ready and open to great things. There is a saying i heard in a movie and it is so true.
"The things you will regret in life are the things you did not do."...
you have a year of adventure and learning that many people never get a chance at..... time is not a stand still home will be different when you get back because you will be different..... you can not compare what would have happened if you stayed home etc think of the butterfly effect.
Oh feeling homesick is so horrible. I think we all know that feeling.
It sounds like you need to speak to your parents.
There is feeling homesick which will pass and then there are situations that just aren’t working out.
You are there on an exchange program to flourish and to learn.
You have a settling in period but if after that time you are still struggling , well that happens and it’s not right for you.
It doesn’t mean you are a failure.
Lots of people get jobs and quit after a few months because it’s not the right thing for them. That’s life.
So it sounds like you need to talk with family and friends to help you get through the initial settling stage and to decide at what point, if you are not settled, it’s time to go home.