waitingforivy

1) How often do you text/call/email your parents? My parents probably call every day for like 5 mins and I text them once or twice a day. I don't really mind because that is what my mom does with the rest of her family (mom, sister) anyways and there are other family issues right now and I want to support her.

2) How bad is it to take benadryl-like sleep aids to go to sleep? I'm always really anxious from finishing my homework right before I sleep and I need a quick way to get rid of those worried thoughts before I sleep.

3) Is it normal to feel homesick every time you visit home and come back?

This might make me sound like I don't like college - that's not true. Its difficult and stressful, but I do reall ylike it.

mitchklong

If you are only taking the benadryl once in a while its probably not a big deal. If you are taking it every nite or exceeding the dose recommendation it definitely is. Consider melatonin and a glass of warm milk instead.

My kids to call or text or email me very often, and its usually some mechanical thing (money or a ride or something). Wouldnt mind getting more though

RoKr93

1. My parents text me every day and call once or twice a week. I doubt that's normal though. They're extremely clingy, but I humor them because I know they do it because they care about me.

2. Doesn't seem like a great idea. I generally don't like depending on medication for much. Maybe make an appointment at the student health center if you're having serious trouble getting to sleep?

Humanoid

1. I call about once a week. My parents don't text so I don't do that. My dad does use facebook so sometimes I'll message him but only if I have something to tell him.

2. You should probably stop doing that. Try relaxing or something before going to sleep rather than knocking yourself out.

3. Sure. I feel a little sad about heading back home when I come back to my campus. As long as it isn't messing with your social life or school work it's not a big deal.

Big10Champ

No longer a freshman, but I definitely was just a few years ago.

1) My mom had not yet mastered texting at this point, but we exchanged e-mails regularly and talked on the phone around once a week.

2) Benadryl every night? I wouldn't recommend it. Try to find some other relaxing techniques and ways to clear you mind.

3) Perfectly normal. I LOVED my freshman year and during winter break I couldn't wait to get back and see everyone, but when I got back there was definitely some homesickness during the day as I got adjusted. Heck, I still feel that way somewhat (though much less so). It's normal.

llthze

1) My mother wants me to call her every day, but I usually call every other day. I would prefer not to, myself, but then I worry she might try to drive up and check up on me.

2) I don't take meds at all, so I don't know about this. Sounds scary close to an addiction and in any case I would second the suggestion to drink warm milk. Though perhaps leave out the pill.

3) I suppose. I don't get homesick, but then I am only three hours away from home. I like being away. It varies for everyone.

annabananna

1. I typically call/text my parents every day. Sometimes it's super quick, and sometimes I will have a longer conversation, depending on my schedule and if I have anything new to tell them. My family still knows most details about my life, and I always keep them updated-yet I've also been this way my whole life.

2. I personally have never taken a sleeping pill, but know people who have. I would advise to stay clear of them, yet I also don't know all the side effects. Better safe than sorry.

3. I think it's normal! Even though I only go to school 45 minutes from home, I still only come home once a month, and miss my family/being home a lot, especially when I'm sick or stressed. It's a big adjustment and normal to feel this way.

GamecockGirl33

1. I am a nontraditional college student, so communication isn't an issue for me. I communicate with her about once a week, but that really depends on how close you guys are.

2. I wouldn't recommend taking it often. Your system builds up an immunity to it pretty quick and it has no effect on you when you NEED it. Have you tried lavender essential oil?

3. Again, nontraditional student, but I would think being homesick is completely normal. It will get easier as time goes by!

intparent

1 & 3, no worries! Perfectly normal.

#2, not so good. I personally like to read before bed to turn my mind off from homework, work, etc. Something not too heavy (eg, recently I was reading a book about the holocaust, it was NOT good bedtime reading). But a mystery or sci-fi or fantasy or lighter biography is good.

steellord321

1. Depends how busy I am and if in the mood. Usually on sundays or maybe a few minutes before the room for my next class is available. If you want to do it every day, I mean it's up to you, but I could not. I wanted badly to get out of that town and i'm thoroughly enjoying the freedom. I have other things to do.

2. Your doctor would know more than me, but it seems healthier to exercise, or at least chill for a while before trying to sleep. Better to do your work ahead of time than rely on pills IMO

3. I miss the cat only. If i want to talk to the parents/sibling there's skype.

stradmom

1. Whatever works for you is fine.

2. I'm concerned about the benadryl habit. As you no doubt know, you should unplug from all electronics about an hour before going to bed (this is hard, trust me!), and you should develop some sort of relaxation ritual - could be hot (decaf) tea, reading, listening to calming music, whatever. It sounds to me like you're going full tilt and then trying to do a dead stop when it's time to sleep...better to gently apply the brakes.

3. Yes. It shows what a positive relationship you have with your family and home. It only becomes a problem if your homesickness causes issues with your other activities.