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When my younger sister, Kristen, began her freshman year at Colorado State University (CSU, Fort Collins, CO), I was stunned to see how quickly she became homesick. Not even 24 hours had passed before the normally cheerful 18-year-old was calling home crying hysterically -- something that went on for a solid month before my parents finally withdrew her from CSU. And it's a good thing they did. Turns out Kristen had thyroid cancer -- a horror she believes her body instinctively sensed.

It also begs an interesting question: With about 35 percent of first-year college students estimated to experience some form of homesickness, how do you know which symptoms are normal -- and which are a sign of serious trouble?

NORMAL: Feeling blue for about eight weeks. "Students are adjusting to major life changes," points out Hillary Case, Ph.D., a counselor at the University of Nevada, Reno. "Sadness, loneliness, and nervousness are all common."
NOT NORMAL: If, after an entire semester, you're not feeling better, Case suggests seeking help at the university counseling center, a free service on many campuses.

NORMAL: Occasionally re-reading your high school yearbook and calling old friends.
NOT NORMAL: Completely isolating yourself in order to relive the past. "Join a study group or club on campus," Case urges. "You'll instantaneously feel less alone."

NORMAL: Slight changes in eating, sleeping, or behavior patterns.
NOT NORMAL: Eating or sleeping excessively (or vice versa), or skipping class. "These are all signs of depression," Case warns. "Regular exercise and good nutrition can help combat depression, but definitely listen to your gut. Some students simply aren't emotionally ready for college and need extra time to prepare."

I know that in Kristen's case, this was certainly true. Today, I'm happy to report that she's cancer-free and thriving at The University of Tulsa, OK!

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