iSavta | 20.09.2025

For many migrant caregivers, living and working in Israel is both rewarding and challenging. You are here to support your family back home and to provide care for someone in need, but it also means being far away from your loved ones for long periods of time.

During the Jewish High Holidays—Rosh Hashanah (New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)—homesickness often feels stronger. These holidays are deeply family-centered. Employers gather with their relatives, eat special meals, and celebrate traditions together. While you may be invited to join, it’s natural to feel a sense of longing for your own family and culture.

Here are some simple but meaningful ways to cope with homesickness during the holidays.

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Why Homesickness Feels Stronger During the Holidays

Holidays remind us of home. You may think of your family gathering for meals, visiting relatives, or attending local celebrations in your country. Seeing your employer’s family together can bring warm feelings, but it can also make you miss your own loved ones even more.

Many caregivers feel a mix of emotions: pride for being able to support their family financially, but sadness for not being with them in special moments. Understanding that these feelings are normal is the first step to managing them.

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Stay Connected to Your Family

Technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch. Even a short call or message can ease feelings of loneliness.

• Video Calls: Schedule a time with your family to connect before or after the holiday meals. Seeing their faces will make you feel closer.

• Messages and Voice Notes: If time zones are a problem, leave a recorded message or send pictures. Your family will feel your love even if you cannot speak at the same time.

• Share the Experience: Take a photo of something new you tried in Israel, like holiday food, and share it with your family. This way, you involve them in your life abroad.

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Create Your Own Traditions

Even if you are far from home, you can make the holidays meaningful for yourself.

• Cook Something Familiar: Prepare a simple dish from your home country that reminds you of family gatherings. Food has a powerful way of connecting us to our roots.

• Gather with Friends: Many caregivers also feel lonely during this time. Organize a small meal or walk with friends. Sharing the moment can ease sadness.

• Write Down Your Thoughts: Journaling about what you are thankful for or what you hope for in the new year can bring peace and clarity.

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Join the Celebration

If your employer’s family invites you to their holiday meal, consider joining. You don’t have to share the same religious beliefs to enjoy the company, taste new foods, and feel part of the warmth of family life.

• Be Open to New Experiences: Try traditional foods like apples dipped in honey or pomegranates. It’s a way of respecting and appreciating your employer’s culture.

• Observe and Learn: Watching the traditions may also help you understand your employer better, making your working relationship smoother.

• Feel Included: Even if you miss your own family, being welcomed at a holiday table can remind you that kindness exists everywhere.

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Take Care of Your Emotional Well-Being

Homesickness can also bring stress, sadness, or tiredness. Caring for yourself is important.

• Rest Enough: Holidays can mean a busier schedule in your employer’s home. Find time to rest so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

• Exercise or Walk: A simple walk outside clears the mind and improves mood. During Yom Kippur, the streets are car-free and peaceful—a perfect chance for a refreshing walk.

• Talk to Someone You Trust: Sharing your feelings with another caregiver or a close friend can lighten the emotional load.

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Remember Your Purpose

It helps to remind yourself why you are in Israel. You are working hard to provide for your family, save money, and build a better future. While missing home is painful, your sacrifice has meaning and value.

Think of the children you are supporting, the home you are helping maintain, or the dreams you are making possible. These thoughts can give strength when loneliness feels heavy.

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Final Thoughts

Homesickness during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is real and natural. But it doesn’t have to overwhelm you. By staying connected with family, creating your own traditions, joining in local celebrations, and taking care of your emotional health, you can find comfort during this season.

Remember: you are not alone. Thousands of caregivers in Israel are experiencing the same feelings. Together, you share a silent bond of strength, courage, and sacrifice. While you may be far from home, your love still reaches your family in every way that matters.

This holiday season, give yourself kindness. Allow yourself to feel both the sadness of missing home and the pride of being here for a purpose. Just like the holidays are about reflection and renewal, you too can use this time to find hope and strength for the year ahead.