Being an Overseease Filipino Worker (OFW) is one of the hardest jobs in the world. You deal with long shifts, the heat, and the pressure of being the provider for your family back home. When you hear bad news about the region or feel the weight of your responsibilities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
“Mindfulness” sounds like a fancy word, but for an OFW, it just means finding a way to keep your head clear. It’s about staying strong for yourself and the people counting on you.
The Power of Writing It Down
When you are stressed, your brain feels like a messy room. Writing things down is like cleaning that room. You don’t need a fancy journal, the “Notes” app on your phone or a scrap of paper works perfectly.
- Dump Your Worries: If you can’t sleep because you’re thinking about money or family, write down everything that’s bothering you. Once it’s on paper, your brain feels like it doesn’t have to “carry” it anymore.
- Make a “Today” List: Instead of worrying about next month, write down 3 small things you need to do today. Checking them off gives you a sense of control.
- Track your wins by jotting down one good thing that happened today, whether it’s enjoying a tasty meal or having a great conversation with a friend. It’s a simple reminder that life is about more than just the challenges.
Preparing to Go Home Without a Salary
Going home is a happy time, but it’s also scary if you don’t have a new job waiting. The stress of being “unemployed” back home can be heavy. Here is how to prepare:
The “Exit” Plan
Look at exactly how much cash you have left. Before you leave, sell what you don’t need. If you have a TV, a fridge, or even extra clothes, sell them to coworkers or on local groups. Every bit of extra cash helps when you land.
Be Honest with Your Family
Don’t wait until you arrive to tell your family the situation. Tell them now: “I’m coming home, but I won’t have a salary for a while.” Explain that there will be no big parties or expensive gifts (pasalubong). This takes the pressure off you and helps them understand that the priority is saving money for daily needs.
Use the Skills You Learned Abroad
You might think you were “just” a laborer, a nurse, or a domestic worker, but you actually learned a lot. When looking for a job back home, remember that you have:
- Experience with different cultures: You know how to work with anyone.
- Patience and Hard Work: You survived 12-hour shifts in a foreign country. That shows you are reliable.
- Better Skills: You likely used tools, computers, or systems that are standard around the world.
The “Saving Mode” Mindset
When you get back, your new “job” is making your money last. Stick to the basics: food, electricity, and rent. Don’t spend on house repairs or new gadgets until you have a steady income again.
You Are Already Strong
Moving across the world to work shows you are incredibly brave. Protecting your peace of mind isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s how you make sure you can keep providing for your loved ones.
Mindfulness will help you stay steady. It allows you to be truly there for your kids during video calls and gives you the strength to plan for your future.
Mental Health & Support Resources for OFWS
Working abroad can be rewarding, but it also comes with heavy emotional and financial pressures. No one should face these challenges alone. There are trusted organizations and programs ready to support OFWs, whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on contracts, or help preparing for reintegration back home.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) / OWWA
This is your primary government contact. They handle everything from contract disputes to emotional distress.
OWWA Mobile App: Available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. This is the fastest way to check your membership and message for assistance without making a long-distance call.
Official Website: dmw.gov.ph
National Center for Mental Health (NCMH)
The NCMH “Crisis Hotline” is a 24/7 service for Filipinos worldwide. They provide psychological first aid.
Facebook Page: National Center for Mental Health (Look for the blue checkmark). You can often message them via Messenger for a quick response if your signal is low.
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Help Page
Managed by the DMW, this is the official Facebook emergency response page.
Use this for: Reporting emergencies or seeking immediate advice on repatriation if you are coming home without a salary.
Reintegration Assistance (Money & Jobs)
If you are coming home without a salary, these are the verifiable programs to help you get back on your feet:
Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!: A livelihood support program for displaced/distressed OFWs. Verified through owwa.gov.ph.
Agri-Negosyo (DTI/DA): Specifically for OFWs who want to start a small farm or food business upon return. Verified through dti.gov.ph.
About the Author
