Dealing With Homesickness While on Medical Cruise Conference

by CME River Conference CME River Conference

Being away from home for long periods of time can make you homesick. You start missing what it's like to sleep in your own bed or eat food that you've prepared. Just remember that it's completely normal to feel homesick, and that once you get used to your new surroundings, you'll be fine.

When you go on medical CME cruises, remember that it's like being surrounded by family. You're with fellow physicians who will be there for you and with you. They most likely feel your struggle, and missing their families at home as well.

Give Your Loved Ones a Call

Call your family at home; they miss you just as much as you miss them. One feature that CME cruise conferences have is that there's free onboard Wi-Fi round the clock. You won't be able to phone them directly because of international constraints, but there is the internet.

You won't have to feel the anxiety of leaving your children at home because you can call them anytime you want.

Socialize With Your Fellow Doctors

Talk with people. Part of why people get homesick is because they feel isolated. Make friends with your fellow doctors; you might find someone from where you live. You could bond over the experiences you've had on the cruise; it will help make things feel more familiar.

Look for What Reminds You of Home

Find the familiar in the unfamiliar. Order your favorite meal at a restaurant, indulge in your favorite activities, and do something that makes you feel at home. The trip is temporary, but the home you go to lasts for a lifetime. It's only a week anyway—that's not too much time away from home.

Make Yourself a Schedule

Create a routine for yourself while you're on the cruise. At home, we follow a daily routine, and that's what keeps you going.

Wake up, exercise, have breakfast, attend the conference, explore the city, go for a swim, shower, and go to bed. Having a daily routine will help you feel more at home, now set one up for yourself before you can even feel the homesickness set in.

Stay Positive!

Maintain a positive attitude while you're on the cruise. If you keep putting yourself down, you'll feel down during the entire trip. Find ways to make yourself happy even when you're on your own.

When you're alone on medical education cruises, it's easy to feel homesick. But don't worry, you'll have a great crowd supporting you and a conference that will make sure you feel at home.