How to cope with the stress of emigration

A variety of studies show us that the process of emigration can be a difficult one and, if not approached in the healthiest way possible, can have a long-term negative impact.

The impact of emigration can be felt in terms of mental health and self-confidence, and it will also have an impact on those left at home. It is very IMPORTANT to remember that negative emotions are part of a normal emigration process and will pass! Allow yourself to feel them, even if they are negative, it is healthy to process them and not "sweep them under the carpet".

All the research shows us, guess what? If we manage emigration in a healthy way, it is associated with long-term well-being, better health and more opportunities for growth.

You can have a big influence on how you feel. Listed below are some proven methods that could help you adapt to your new country. Realising that you can influence things is already a big step in the right direction.

So how do we manage moving to another country in a healthy way?

- Set REAL EXPECTATIONS, it's a process, it's normal to take some time to adjust

- Focus on the PRESENT moment, I know your mind wanders sometimes to the past and the future, but it is very important to always try to bring your attention back to the present moment. Walking, being aware of the way your feet touch the ground, the colours around you, the sounds - these can help your mind focus on the present.

- Create ROUTINES! Routines are proven to be very helpful when we make big changes in our lives. Try setting a daily wake-up time, a meal schedule, maybe a language learning schedule, any kind of routines benefit you.

- Try to GET OUT OF THE HOUSE! Maybe you can find a community, new friends; local Facebook groups can help. It's important to communicate so you can create a sense of BELONGING in your new country.

- Talk about how you FEEL and your concerns. As I said above, processing emotions is very important in the long run, talking about how we feel and the things that worry us helps.

- If you feel overwhelmed by the moving process and feel like everything is too much to handle, it's best to talk to a specialist. Try to find a psychologist in your area, or alternatively, a psychologists who does online therapy.

Little by little, you will start to see positive things in your new country too and you will have a more positive attitude towards the future. You will begin to regain confidence in your ability to cope even when there are difficulties.

REMEMBER, you moved to Germany for a better life, for more opportunities to grow, for a better financial situation, for overall BETTER. It's important to constantly remind yourself of this and review your goals. We will try to be here for you with the most useful advice and support in this important transition.

Sources:

Health Psychology & Behavioural Medicine Journal

MIELI Mental Health Finland

Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine