Finding Home Again: How Young People Spent Lockdown at Home

"You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending." – C.S. Lewis

The lockdown was an unexpected pause in our fast-paced lives, pushing many young people to return home after years of being away. For some, it was a chance to reconnect with their families, while for others, it was a period of adjustment—navigating between independence and family expectations.

The Return Home

Many young individuals who had moved out for studies or work found themselves back in their childhood homes. One young woman shares her story of being away for years, adapting to an independent lifestyle, managing her own finances, and shaping her habits. Returning home meant stepping into a familiar yet altered space, where she had to reconcile her self-reliance with family life again.

Relearning Family Life

Lockdown brought a mix of emotions—relief, anxiety, and nostalgia. While it was comforting to be back with family, adjusting to household routines and family dynamics was not always easy. The same person reflects on how, despite the challenges, she began cherishing the time spent with loved ones. Conversations that once seemed mundane turned into deep discussions about movies, politics, and dreams.

A Time for Growth

For many, the lockdown was also a time of self-discovery. Some took up gardening, cooking, or revisiting forgotten hobbies. Others engaged in meaningful conversations with family members, realizing they had missed out on sharing emotions and experiences. One young person put it beautifully:

“It’s been five years since I lived at home. Lockdown made me realize how much I missed being with my family. I started helping my mom, spending more time with them, and sharing things I never had before. Now, I feel like I don’t want to leave again.”

Embracing the Present

Despite the uncertainty about studies, careers, and the future, many young people chose to embrace the present moment. Lockdown became a time to appreciate the little things—family meals, evening chats, and laughter over old memories. It reminded them that home is not just a place but a feeling of belonging.

Sharing Our Stories

Every young person’s lockdown experience is unique, and their stories deserve to be heard. If you’d like to share your own journey of being at home during lockdown, write to us at thoughtstoactionjorhat@gmail.com. Let’s create a space for reflection, connection, and inspiration.