Expats deal with anxiety. Yet it might be difficult recognizing it.
It is the second mental health problem among expats, after depression.
Being abroad and “living the life” is beautiful and a great opportunity. It also involves challenges that can trigger a high ammount of stress that might not be comprehensible to the eyes of others (sometimes even family members and friends).
That might lead to shame and guilt, as we might blame ourselves for not cherishing what we are “supposed” to enjoy.
Many people think you can only experience anxiety when you have a panic attack or when you need medication to regulate your mood.
Recognizing Anxiety: It can be with us in different ways
During my first year as an expat, I had a rough time.
I always felt “on edge.” Irritable, spreading negativity -not intentionally, but it “happened.”-, demotivated, and incredibly lonely.
My relationship – and the reason why I relocated in the first place – was being affected. I isolated myself because I was ashamed of not enjoying the wonderful and shiny life abroad.
Of course, I thought everything was my fault. I wasn’t good enough. I couldn’t focus. It was getting worse. Until I put a name on it.
Anxiety.
It took me a while, however. But when I recognized it, I asked for help. Thanks to my therapist, I was able to cope with these issues and thoroughly enjoy my life abroad, even with its darker sides.
In this video “Recognizing Anxiety in our daily life”, I show you 5 every-day-signals that might be indicating anxiety in your life.
#1 Not sleeping well or feel unrested even if able to sleep
#2 Troubles focusing even on relatively easy tasks
#3 Feel worried and overwhelmed most of the day
#4 Irritability, feeling “on edge” and about to explode
#5 Feeling disconnected, even when surrounded by your loved ones
Watch the full video here!
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I have a helpful freebie at your disposition: 9 Tools to overcome expat anxiety
In this guide, you will find concrete, simple, and easy-to-apply strategies and tips to manage the anxiety, stress and sadness abroad
You will feel relieved and energized!
These hacks are applicable to your everyday life, wherever you are
You can find this freebie here.
Do you want to find YOUR WAY to cope with anxiety and live a fulfilled life abroad? Contact me now!
Check my new package Roadmap Coaching Session and let’s design an action plan for your international life, wherever you are, wherever you are going!
Want your 30-Minute Free Consultation? Book Here!
Still not sure about making the next move? Read the testimonials of my clients living the life abroad they want!
By your side,
Gabriela
Gabriela Encina is an online psychologist specialized in expat women and supports them with the guidance and tools they need to feel confident, make the best decisions for their lives, build and maintain meaningful relationships and prioritize their well-being.
Her approach is practical, solution-oriented and focused on the present.
Gabriela offers counseling to expat women in Spanish, English and German.
