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Overview
Starting in a new country is a major change, even if the culture is similar. Missing home, beginning a new life, and coping with the changes can be hard sometimes. If your new home is quite different, it could be quite a shock. If you're struggling with how you feel, Head to Health can help you find support.
Feeling homesick and missing friends and family
Without our loved ones around us, it can be challenging at times. You might miss them when you need support. Or when special events happen. Or when you just want them nearby! These feelings can get stronger when you are starting over in a new country and trying to make new friends. If you are feeling isolated or lonely, support is available.
Creating a new social network
Making friends and building connections takes time. This is normal and it is different for everyone. But, if it doesn’t work straight away, we can get frustrated and blame ourselves, with thoughts like:
- "It's my fault I can't make friends quickly",
- "I am not an interesting person", or
- "It would be easier to make friends if I could speak my own language. I sound stupid."
It’s important to stop these thoughts early. If you feel isolated or alone, Head to Health can help.
Dealing with trauma
Each of us deals with traumatic events such as a death, a disaster, or abuse in our own way. You might have left your home country because of war or persecution. When you’re in a new country, it can feel like support is hard to find. It’s important to know that help is available.
If you are worried about your safety or someone else’s, go here.
If you have experienced or witnessed abuse, you can report it.
If your experience has left you distressed, ashamed, anxious, or depressed, we can help you find support.
Feeling safe and included
Feeling safe and included is an important part of our mental health. It helps us to relax and take part in the world around us. Discrimination or racism can threaten that safety. It can leave you feeling distressed, ashamed, anxious, or depressed.
Remember, if you experience discrimination or racism, you can report it.
If you need help to feel OK, support is available online or on the phone.
Securing a stable future
Adapting to a new country can be a very unstable time. Not knowing what the future will bring and lack of routines can cause a lot of stress. There may be language barriers. There could be problems with money, jobs, or housing. It can take a long time before you begin to feel secure. If you feel stressed or sad about your situation, we can help you find support.
Struggling to find a job
It can be difficult to get work when starting in a new country. There can be barriers. Your qualifications may not be recognised. There could be language issues, a lack of jobs, visa problems. Employers may want you to work remotely, or take a lower role. Being unable to get the work you want can make you frustrated and discouraged. If work worries are making you stressed, we can help you to find support.
Finances overseas
It can be hard to feel in control when you are trying to manage something from a distance. If you have finances overseas, it can be stressful if there are problems. If you have worries about your money situation, it’s important to address them early. This helps you to feel safe, stable and secure.
Next steps
You might find online and phone-based mental health resources helpful. Some suggestions are below. You can find more with our Search tool (opens in a new tab).
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Page last updated 22nd December 2020