As an expat myself (Ukrainian living in the UK since 2005) I have faced many challenges of moving to another country. Feeling lonely, isolated, resentful, angry or in constant fear are just a few examples of what you might be going through when you move to another culture.

Living somewhere new is one of the most challenging and life changing experiences we can go through. The move pushes us out of our familiar zone, many of the things that we have learned and did without thinking suddenly require a lot of attention.

Our brain becomes overwhelmed, which can lead to Culture Shock - a sense of confusion and uncertainty which might lead to feeling isolated, anxious and depressed.

It takes time to adapt to a new culture, and yet the loss of familiar environment, breakdown in social and family support system, uncertainty and foreignness of new culture can all lead to an identity crises and loss of self-esteem.

If what I said sounds familiar, please get in touch on 07902 814827 for a free 20 min consultation, and remember you don't have to go through it on your own.

Helpful Tips

Because our brains are so overwhelmed by new surroundings, unfamiliar faces, language and cultural differences helpful ways to cope with this might be:

• Deciding what to spend your energy on by not overloading yourself with too many tasks and leaving those that aren’t urgent for another day
• Establishing a routine, as routine brings familiarity and reduces stress on an already overworking brain
  
• Talk to someone – externalizing your feelings and experience is the key, if you don’t have access to therapy, then make a journal and write down what’s on your mind
  
• Go for walk, exercise, read a book, hug a tree (yes it works!) watch a film, call a friend, cook or bake, take a nap, listen to music, meditate... anything that helps you to feel calm