Things are cruising along nicely…you've settled into your new job, found a place to live, making friends…and then suddenly bang…you hit the ground with a thud!

Homesickness can affect anyone, any time - even if you are feeling well adjusted and happy. Several things can bring on those feelings of anxiety or worry - a problem at work, bad weather, a birthday, wedding or special event at home that you are missing out on or even just missing your bus! You can go from happy and carefree to tearful and miserable in the blink of an eye.

The important thing to remember about feeling a bit emotional or home sick is that it is completely normal, and to be expected from time to time.

Most people who live in a foreign country or city will experience it at some time. It might help to have a good cry and feel wretched for a few hours!

You can also do something positive for yourself to make yourself feel better- treat yourself to a coffee and some people watching in a groovy café, book yourself a trip or journey to somewhere interesting in the city you are living in, go for a walk, see a movie, have a warm bubble bath or call home.

Your friends and family will always love to hear from you, and its not as expensive as you think. Surprise them, by just ringing for a gossip.

If you decide to just wallow in your homesickness and sit at home under the covers with a tub of ice cream- go for it and feel rotten for a few hours, but don't stay sad for too long.

Talk to someone. Don't let your homesickness take over or get you down. Living in another country can batter your emotions. It's important to acknowledge there will be 'highs' and 'lows'. Accept that feeling low from time to time is normal and you'll soon be back on track and enjoying your adventure.

Always remember, you can talk to your HealthStaff consultant any time.

For many years now HealthStaff Recruitment has successfully recruited registered nurses and allied health professionals for The Alfred.

The Alfred offers wonderful opportunities for registered nurses from Australia and Abroad. The Alfred has over 50,000 inpatient visits annually and over 40,000 emergency department attendances. The Alfred is Victoria's major trauma centre incorporating a helipad, and the specialty services include Hyperbaric Medicine, Adult Cystic Fibrosis, Adult Haemophilia, Major Adult Burns, Heart/Lung Transplant & Stereotactic Radiosurgery.

The Alfred enjoys a prime inner Melbourne with tram and bus at the front entrance and a train station very close by. It is opposite Fawkner Park, about 10 minutes into the CBD by public transport and within close proximity to all amenities.

The Alfred is focused on patient-centred care, respect, trust and professional development. The specialities include the largest critical care unit in the Southern Hemisphere. Services also include Cardiovascular Services, Respiratory Medicine, Cancer and Haematology, Infectious Diseases / HIV, Burns, Neurosciences and Psychiatric Services.

How The Alfred Looks After Their Staff
In 2002, The Alfred was rated one of the best Victorian hospitals for patient satisfaction. As an innovative and dynamic organisation they recognise that to maintain their high standards they must attract and retain exceptional staff.

HealthStaff Recruitment publishes regular newsletters and bulletins as a service to our valued clients and trust these are of benefit to you. In accordance with the Privacy Amendment
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Please advise us on +61 (0)3 9530 2511 or by email info@hsr.com.au© HealthStaff Recruitment 2005.

All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is provided as a general guide only. HealthStaff Recruitment has taken reasonable care in producing or collating this information but changes may occur at any time that impact on the accuracy or completeness of the information.

Events

NSW Health
We recently visited the UK, USA, NZ and Canada interviewing Registered Nurses to work in Sydney and surrounds. Congratulations to those offered positions and a big thank you to NSW Health and their representatives. If you are interested in working in Sydney, please contact us today as we still have many great opportunities available.

Melbourne Grand Prix
Celebrate 10 years of Formula 1 racing at the spectacular Albert Park in Melbourne. General admission to the opening day of Formula 1 racing on Thursday 3rd March will be FREE! From 3-6 March 2005, Albert Park Lake comes alive. It is a great spectacle and something you have to see if you are in Melbourne! For more information see the official website at: www.grandprix.com.au - lucky most of us can have the day off afterwards!!!.

Melbourne Drinks
From all the team at HealthStaff Recruitment,
We would like to wish you a safe & Happy Easter.