The
Mental Health Foundation defines emotional well-being as “A positive sense of well-being which enables an individual to function in society and meet the demands of everyday life; people in good mental health have the ability to recover effectively from illness, change or misfortune.”
For FDWs, to be healthy emotionally is to:
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Understand and adjust appropriately to change
While working in Singapore, you may come across different behaviour or values that may not seem familiar to you. It is alright to ask questions and clarify, but do remember to show respect for different races and religions.
While you may come across different lifestyles and habits while working, do ensure that you are not exposed to danger, disrespect or discrimination.
When you are feeling stressed, remember to not keep it in and suffer by yourselves. Surface your concerns to your employers and seek to have a calm and honest conversation with them. If that does not work, you may contact us at the CDE 24-hour helpline 1800-2255-233, or the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).
Some tips to overcome stress effectively include: talking to someone you trust, prioritizing tasks accordingly, and seeking professional help.
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Have a positive self-concept
How you view yourself is extremely important. With a positive impression of your own abilities and strong belief in yourself, you will be able to gather the strength you need to overcome the difficulties you face.
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Have the ability to love and care for others
Your employers hold great trust in you when they hand over their family members and homes to your care. As a result, you have the responsibility to do your best in the tasks allocated to you by your employers, but be sure that you are also accorded care and consideration by your employers.
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Can act independently to meet his/her own needs
When you face difficulties, such as salary disputes, unfair treatment, lack of rest/ food/ water, you should firstly attempt to discuss with your employers first. If that does not work out, do seek help from authorities or organisations, such as the employment agency, police or CDE. Do not suffer in silence just because you assume that you have less rights as a domestic helper.
For employers who may feel that they require some guidance on ensuring their FDWs’ emotional well-being, here are some useful tips for reference:
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To be empathetic is to be aware of the feelings and emotions of other people. When you go the extra mile of displaying empathy when interacting with your FDWs, less miscommunication and misunderstanding may arise.
1. Try to understand things from the other party’s point of view
2. Listen attentively
3. Temporarily suspend preconceived judgments or beliefs
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Improving interpersonal communication can do wonders to the relationship between your FDW and yourself. Some methods are:
1. Not showing negative body language (e.g. frowning, crossing of arms)
2. Not interrupting
3. Be open to receiving ideas.
