Battling homesickness is one of the most common struggles of new OFWs. Being away from your loved ones and friends for the first time can be really difficult. On top of that, you will miss many important occasions, activities, and even your favorite comfort foods back home.
Of course, being homesick is actually normal. Everyone experiences it – even those who have been working abroad for years. The only difference here is that longtime OFWs already know how to properly deal with it.
So without further ado, here are some proven ways to help you with your first few months abroad:
1) Read a lot.
Whether you’ve always been an avid reader or not, reading is always a good past time. Not only does it keep you occupied, it also helps increase your knowledge. Go buy a book or a magazine and read when you are bored. You may also download ebooks for your mobile device or browse the internet. The options are endless and the rewards are great if you expose yourself to good reading materials.
2) Communicate with loved ones regularly.
With internet technology, staying in touch with your family and friends have become easier. You can use Skype to do chats and video calls. You can also keep updated with everyone’s lives and activities as you catch up with each other on Facebook. Create accounts on these useful tools and it will feel like you’re home all over again.
3) Live a healthy lifestyle.
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting adequate rest can make a big difference. It keeps you healthy and that leads to having a more positive outlook in life. Studies show that unhealthy individuals are prone to depression so that’s something you would want to avoid.
4) Make new friends.
Developing new friendships is always a good thing. Interact with your co-workers and look for fellow OFWs. You’d have friends to spend your time with plus they’d be willing to listen if you have worries and concerns.
5) Take time to relax.
Go out during your day-off. Treat yourself from time to time. Dine in a Filipino restaurant. Learn a new hobby. You will be able to overcome homesickness as you do these simple things.
6.) Do some exercises and engage to sports
Exercise and sports can relieve your stress when you do it regularly especially on your leisure time. Make a schedule let say when you have no work for the said day do something that will benefit your body just like exercise and sports. Some exercise you can do is jogging, biking and weight lifting. If you want play basketball, tennis, or volleyball.
All the tips written above are effective ways that will help you to relieve your stress and overcome homesickness.