Going away to college is a big step. As students separate from their former day-to-day life and enter a new world of academia, it can be daunting. It’s not surprising that many first-year students say they feel lonely or homesick. This is common, and luckily, there are steps to take to help get through those tough times.

1. Acknowledge and adjust. It’s important to be aware of the transition. Don’t get stuck thinking you are the only person who has ever been sad at a time when you’re expected to be happy. Give yourself time to feel sad or miss home, then try to turn your attention to your new environment and focus on all school has to offer.

2. Realize you are not alone. Take comfort in the fact that you are not the only student on campus that feels the way you do. Reach out to other students, talk to your roommate or other new friends. Create a support system and discuss your feelings.

3. Get out of your room. Don’t just hole up in your room after going to class. You’ll feel less homesick when you’re not sitting alone. Head to a local coffee shop, walk around campus, find the athletic hall or student union and connect with others to study.

4. Keep in touch. Whether by computer or phone, it’s never been easier to stay in contact with your friends, loved ones and your at-home support group. Check in from time to time and let them know when you’re struggling or have a problem. It is often easier to adjust when you can tap your support network as necessary and recognize your time away is not forever.

5. Take care of yourself. Eating well and getting enough sleep and exercise can make a massive difference in the way you feel emotionally. Taking care of your physical self can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

6. Meet people. It may seem easier said than done but take steps to make new friends. Talk with your roommate, join a study group or club, chat with other students in and after class or hang out in common areas of the dorm. Find people with common interests, reach out and connect.

7. Attitude means everything. Staying positive about the college experience is a helpful way to combat loneliness or depression. Keep an optimistic outlook. Focus on all the things you love about being a college student instead of what you miss about home or what makes school difficult.

8. It’s not too late to join. If feeling lonely or homesick the first few days of school meant you missed signing up for a club or sports team, don’t despair. Even if you’re weeks into the first semester, there are plenty of groups you can join and things you can do. It’s never too late. Plus, college can get so busy that it’s not unusual for students to drop in and out of organizations all the time. There are plenty of openings. Pursue your interests.

9. Use good judgment. College is a time when students try things they haven’t before. Being away from home allows for freedom as well. New experiences are important, but alcohol or drugs often make feelings of depression and anxiety worse.

10. Seek assistance if you need it. For many college students, it will take a few weeks to find friends and fit in; others may find feelings of homesickness and loneliness persist well into the school year. Many colleges offer counseling services or mental health resources. Seek out these resources and find someone who can provide assistance. These professionals have the insight to help you cope and adjust.