Feeling Homesick in a PG? Here’s What Actually Helps
You’ve landed in a new city, moved into a PG, and the first few days were exciting… but now it’s starting to hit. You miss your old routine. Your favourite food. The people. Even the chaos of home feels comforting compared to the awkward quiet of your new room.
If that sounds like you — take a breath. Homesickness is more common than anyone admits, especially if you’re living in a Bangalore PG or any city away from family for the first time.
Here’s what actually helps.
What Homesickness Looks Like in Real Life
It’s not always dramatic. Sometimes, it’s just:
- Feeling weirdly emotional at night
- Eating less (or more) than usual
- Scrolling through old photos
- Thinking “this doesn’t feel like home” every morning
- Avoiding people in your PG or hostel
It doesn’t mean you’re not strong, it just means you care about where you come from. And now, you’re adjusting. That takes time.
Why PG Life Makes It Tricky
PGs can be fun, but let’s be real: you’re suddenly sharing space with strangers, adjusting to new food, figuring out bus routes, and maybe working long hours. Add that to the fact that everything smells, sounds, and feels unfamiliar… it’s a lot.
But here’s what most people won’t tell you — the homesick phase doesn’t last. The faster you settle in, the faster it fades.
How to Settle In Without Losing Yourself
1. Make Your Room Less Boring
Throw in a couple of old pictures, maybe a blanket from home, some fairy lights, even your old water bottle. These little things tell your brain, “This space belongs to me now.”
2. Do Something Familiar Every Day
Same chai at 5 PM? Daily walk? A favourite playlist before bed? Rebuilding old routines in a new place brings comfort, and your brain loves predictability.
3. Call People — Don’t Ghost Them
You’re not proving anything by staying silent. Call your parents. Chat with your cousin. Vent in your college group. Hearing familiar voices works like magic.
4. Say “Hi” to Someone — Even if It’s Awkward
You don’t have to become best friends with your roommate, but say hello. Ask what they’re watching. Attend one of the community events at Colive. One good chat can shift your entire mood.
5. Eat Something That Feels Like Home
Ordering idli from that place across the street might make you feel better than any Domino’s pizza. If you can cook, even better. At Colive, you often get shared kitchen access — use it.
6. Go Outside More
Seriously. Take a 20-minute walk around the block. Find your new chai spot. Let the city feel familiar. The more you step out, the faster you connect to the space around you.
7. Don’t Pretend You’re Okay If You’re Not
You don’t need to “tough it out.” If you’re in a Colive space, the team’s there to help. Talk to the manager, or schedule a visit with someone if you’re still deciding where to stay.
Why Colive Helps More Than You Think
Honestly? It’s the little things. Here’s what makes adjusting smoother:
- Fully furnished PG rooms — no chaos of buying buckets and mattresses
- Fast Wi-Fi so you can stay connected
- Clean spaces that feel safe and lived-in
- Friendly events to make new friends
- And… people who get it
It’s not just about rent and walls. It’s about feeling okay in your space.
Related Reads That Might Help
- Still packing? Check out the PG Packing Checklist for First-Time Residents
- Want to ease into city life? Here are tips to make your first 30 days in a PG smoother from habits to small lifestyle changes.
Final Thoughts
Give yourself a week or two. Don’t expect to feel “normal” overnight. The first night might be tough, the second might feel worse but the third will surprise you. One day you’ll come back to your PG, sit down, and realize: “Yeah, this feels like mine now.”
Until then, stay soft, stay connected, and remember: you’re not alone.
FAQs
- Am I the only one who feels homesick after moving to a PG?
Not at all. Everyone goes through it even the confident ones. - Will I ever feel settled here?
Yes. It just takes time and small changes. Most people adjust within 2–3 weeks. - Is it okay to miss home even if I chose to move out?
Absolutely. Missing home doesn’t mean you made a wrong decision. - Can decorating my PG room actually help?
It really does. Small, personal touches give your brain a sense of control. - What kind of support does Colive offer?
Colive helps with onboarding, offers fully furnished PG rooms, and hosts events that help you feel less like a stranger. - Is it okay to talk to someone if I’m not feeling okay?
Please do. Talk to a roommate, a friend, or someone from the Colive team. You’re not alone in this.
