How to Deal with Homesickness?

Image from Sir Bryan Emmanuel

What is Homesickness?

Homesickness- as defined by Merriam-Webster, is a condition where one is longing for home and family while absent from them. It is the feeling of "I want to go home" or "I miss someone". Well, as a seafarer, I can tell you that I have experienced it too. However, your attention must be undivided when you are performing your duty onboard a ship. A wandering mind is an "Accident waiting to happen".


Truly, homesickness affects Overseas Filipino Workers(OFW), especially us Seafarers. All migrant workers can attest to this. The moment the boarding pass is issued and people are waiting for their boarding call, homesickness begins. One feels the long, lonely road ahead and sometimes contemplates if he/she is really going to go on. This struggle continues aboard the aircraft until embarkation onboard ship.

Generally, a newcomer onboard is still accustomed to his/her habits and practices ashore. That is why their performance for a few days is still considered and understood, saying "Sige lang, bago pa kasi. Nag aadjust pa yan" in English "Just let him/her, he's/she's still new and adjusting".


Nevertheless, you must combat homesickness. It should not get in the way of your work. Please remember that you need a good record onboard to ensure continuous employment. You cannot always reason out that you are homesick. Note that you agreed (as per employment contract) to work onboard, so you must finish your contract.

How to deal with Homesickness?

So the question is how do we deal with homesickness? I have laid down my suggestions, which are the following:

1. Pray to God

Most things are beyond our control. It is of utmost importance that you ask for assistance from the Almighty Father and submit to him everything. With the lord helping you out, every challenge is doable.

2. Accept reality

You are not at home, you're onboard the ship. Do not argue with reality, it is going to make you crazy. Accept the facts. In that way, you can focus your energies on your work.

3. Socialize

Probably the best way to fight homesickness. Make friends, interact with people.

4. Visualize

Look at the future. Anticipate the moment that you will meet again with your loved ones. That way, you will be inspired to work harder (earning more money, of course).

5. Communicate

If you have the opportunity, contact your family, in any method. The times now allow people to communicate over great distances. This will lessen the feeling of missing them.

Hope this helps, more power to Seafarers!