Homesickness tips

 

“If you’ve ever been homesick or felt exiled from all the things and people that once defined you, you will know how important welcoming and friendly smiles can be.”

 

Homesickness describes the feeling of anxiety or emotional distress. It is caused by feeling alone and disconnected from the usual people and places.

 

This is common to domestic helpers, especially those who are working away from home for the first time.

 

Culture shock, being surrounded by strangers, and separation from your usual support system are the factors that can make it hard for you to adjust working abroad.

 

To make you feel at ease while away from home, we have gathered our top tips to handle homesickness.

 

1. Talk to locals and socialize with the people you are serving.

 

This is the best way to avoid missing the people you left back home. Recreate new circles and overcome your shyness. Have a conversation with new people and make some new friends.

 

2. Explore the area.

 

 

Do not stay unfamiliar with the places you are working in — volunteer to do the groceries. Spend more time in crowded places until you get used to it and be more comfortable.

 

Let yourself know a new culture and try their food. Moreover, visit the famous tourist places in the area.

 

3. Take a break from social media.

 

Social media will make you feel sad that you are away from your family. Take a break on keeping track of what is happening at home. Take the time to make happy memories in the new place.

 

4. Bring something that reminds you of home.

 

Make sure you pack a family picture or a favourite book before you leave home, that way, you feel more connected with those at home. You will at least feel less lonely, and it will remind you why you’re in Hong Kong- to give your family a better life.

 

You could even cook some food that reminds you of being at home!

 

 

5. Keep yourself busy and work positively.

 

Unoccupied time will make you think of your family back home. Keep yourself busy and be a productive worker instead. If you’re finished with your tasks, you can try new hobbies like sewing and learning new languages.

 

Being an FDW can be very difficult primarily if you are used to being with people you know. But remember that everybody is experiencing it and it’s normal. Don’t let it win over you.

 

Just be strong and remember what Stephen King quotes;

 

“If you’ve ever been homesick or felt exiled from all the things and people that once defined you, you will know how important welcoming and friendly smiles can be.”