Homesickness is one of the first challenges most new recruits in the British Army face, but it rarely gets the attention it deserves in training manuals. Whether you’re in the early weeks of basic training or out on operations, the tug of longing for home can be overwhelming. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the Army, I can tell you: that overcoming homesickness is a universal challenge. The key is to manage it so it doesn’t interfere with your performance.
Here are strategies that helped me, and many others, overcome homesickness during tough times away from home.
1. Acknowledge Homesickness: It’s Normal
The first step in how to overcome homesickness in the British Army is acknowledging that it’s completely normal. Every soldier, no matter how tough, feels it at some point. Some recruits fear it makes them look weak, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Military life, especially for new recruits, is emotionally taxing, and homesickness is a natural response.
If you try to bury those feelings, they tend to resurface at the worst times. Recognize them, accept that you miss home, and understand that everyone else is going through it too. Acknowledging this will allow you to process homesickness more effectively and move forward.
2. Develop a Strong Routine
A structured routine is essential in overcoming homesickness during Army training. The Army thrives on structure, and it’s there for good reason. When you’re busy with training, drills, and exercises, your mind has less room to dwell on home. A daily routine keeps you engaged and focused.
In your personal time, create small routines—organize your kit a certain way, set aside time to write letters, or journal your thoughts. This structure offers a sense of normalcy, providing comfort in an otherwise high-stress environment.
3. Set Realistic Expectations for Communication
During training or operations, communication with home is often limited, which can heighten feelings of homesickness. One of the best tips for how to overcome homesickness in the British Army is to manage your expectations for communication. You might only get a few minutes on the phone each week, or be in places where internet access is sporadic.
Rather than relying too heavily on constant communication to feel connected, try to focus on quality over quantity. Setting realistic expectations will make those conversations more meaningful and prevent you from feeling stuck in a cycle of longing.
4. Lean on Your Mates
In the Army, you’re never truly alone. Your fellow recruits are going through the exact same experiences as you, and they miss home too. One of the most effective ways to overcome homesickness is by building strong relationships with your mates. Your platoon becomes your second family—support each other through tough moments.
Don’t isolate yourself when you’re feeling homesick. Talk to the people around you. Sometimes, just having a chat with someone who’s also missing home can make all the difference. Those bonds you create now will be invaluable throughout your military career.
5. Keep Your Goals in Focus
Another key to overcoming homesickness in the British Army is keeping your goals front and centre. Why did you join the Army? Whether it’s to challenge yourself, serve your country, or build a career, remind yourself of these reasons when homesickness kicks in.
Visualize the pride you’ll feel when you march on that parade square after completing your training. Keeping these goals in mind will help you push through tough times, making homesickness a temporary hurdle on your path to success.
6. Embrace New Experiences
One of the best ways to beat homesickness is to immerse yourself in the Army experience. The military opens up a world of new skills, cultures, and environments. Instead of focusing on what you’re missing at home, look at what you’re gaining. This shift in perspective helps overcome homesickness by giving you something exciting to look forward to.
The Army will take you places—physically and mentally—that most civilians will never experience. Embrace these opportunities for growth, and soon, the pangs of homesickness will begin to fade.
7. Take It One Day at a Time
When you’re away from home for long periods, it’s tempting to count down the days until you can return. But this can make homesickness worse. Instead, focus on each day’s tasks and celebrate the small victories. Whether it’s improving your PT scores or mastering a new skill, these wins help keep you grounded and forward-focused.
By taking things one day at a time, you’ll find that overcoming homesickness becomes less about longing for home and more about finding your footing in the present.
8. Utilise Support Networks
Finally, the British Army offers a range of support systems designed to help you deal with homesickness. Welfare officers, chaplains, and even your chain of command are there to support you. Don’t hesitate to tap into these resources if you’re struggling.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. The ability to recognise when you need support is a valuable skill in both military and civilian life. Whether it’s a quick chat with a mate or more formal support, remember that you’re never without resources.
Final Thoughts on How to Overcome Homesickness in the British Army
Homesickness is a challenge every recruit will face, but it doesn’t have to define your experience. By acknowledging your feelings, leaning on your mates, and keeping your goals in sight, you can manage homesickness. Every step you take away from home is a step toward becoming the soldier you aspire to be.
In the end, the pride and accomplishment of getting through training or deployment will far outweigh the temporary longing for home. Overcoming homesickness in the British Army is part of what will make you stronger, more resilient, and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. Trust me—I’ve been there, and it’s all part of the journey.
