Homesickness is the sad, lonely feeling you get when you're away from home and miss the people, places, and routines that make you feel safe and comfortable. It's that ache in your chest when you're at sleepaway camp and wish you could be in your own bed, or when you're visiting relatives and suddenly really want to see your dog or play in your own backyard.

Homesickness isn't the same as just missing one person or thing. It's missing the whole feeling of home: the smell of your house, the sound of your family's voices, your familiar neighborhood, even small things like how the light comes through your bedroom window in the morning. A kid in their first week of boarding school might feel homesick even though they're excited about their new adventure.

Homesickness is completely normal and doesn't mean you're weak or babyish. Even adults feel homesick when they move to a new city or travel far from family. The feeling usually gets better as you adjust to your new surroundings and create new routines. Many people find that staying busy, making new friends, and keeping in touch with family can help ease the longing.