Homesick but Holding On: OFWs Share What Keeps Them Going

Adjusting to life overseas is exciting—but it often comes with a heavy price: homesickness. Everyday OFWs reveal real strategies to manage loneliness and reconnect emotionally—even when they’re far from the Philippines.

1. Stay Connected to Loved Ones

Long-distance calls and chats are vital. Filipina expats in Norway and elsewhere share:

“I keep on … looking at them… constant contact… It helps”.

In a Malaysian study, students and expats stress that frequent conversations with family and friends can heal homesickness.

2. Build a Support Network Abroad

Friendship with fellow OFWs or locals can soften the distance. Reddit users advocate:

“Make new friends… attend events… meet fellow Filipinos” .

Formal groups—for sports, church, or community—help many kabayans feel at home.

3. Develop New Hobbies & Stay Active

Keeping busy changes the narrative of loneliness.

• A Redditor shares they found comfort in cooking, listening to OPM, and exercising.

• Exercise also relieves stress and improves mood, backed by expat research.

4. Create a Familiar Space

Personal touches in your environment can help anchor you.

Adding family photos, snacks from home, and OPM music in your living space brings comfort—“a Filipino corner,” says one OFW.

5. Think Positively & Stay Busy

Mindset matters. Reddit users suggest:

“Always remember your reason for leaving… Think of how you’ll grow”.
“Make the most of alone time—cook, learn new skills, gym, netflix” .

Research on students shows positive thinking—like recalling good memories—can lessen homesickness.

6. Embrace Self-Care & Seek Help

Look after your mental health proactively:

• Keep up with hobbies, pray, or write a journal .

• If homesickness turns into deeper sadness, reach out to employers, consulates, or mental health professionals for support (ofwjobs.org).

Quick Homesickness Survival Kit

• Regular video calls with family

• Activity-based social life—sports, classes, gatherings

• Personalized space with Filipino memories

• Learning new skills or hobbies to stay engaged

• Daily exercise for energy and mood

• Positive thinking routines to stay resilient

• Professional help when loneliness turns serious

Homesickness won’t disappear overnight, but these real-life tips—from staying connected to embracing new routines—can make a world of difference. Every call home, new friend abroad, or workout session brings you closer to feeling at home—no matter how far away you are.