The top 5 common problems suffered by expats

Anyone who has ever even considered moving overseas will know there are many issues to consider and to take into account. While there are a number of common issues associated with moving overseas the fact is that everybody is different and everybody has their own issues and problems to overcome. However, we have been investigating the top five common problems suffered by expats and hereby list them below together with our comments.

Loneliness

If there is one common problem suffered by expats it would have to be the problem of loneliness when moving to a new country. There is no doubt that when moving to a foreign land, especially where a foreign language is used, it can be difficult to settle in and settle down in your new environment. Indeed, it is well documented that many expats will remain cooped up in their home for many months after their initial move overseas and find it very difficult to socialise and mix with their new found neighbours. So what can you do?

There is no simple solution to the problem of loneliness when looking to move overseas and for many people it will take some time to settle down. However, if you can push yourself to leave the house and mix with the local population then the issue of loneliness will become less prevalent in your mind. The more time that you spend in your house, whether with your friends, family or by yourself, the more time you have to think over issues which would normally pass you by without comment. Sitting cooped up amongst the same environment day in and day out is not the answer to your loneliness problems and can actually affect your physical health and your mental health.

Whether you are moving overseas with a friend, family or even by yourself, you need to push yourself to socialise and mix in local circles. If you flip a coin and put yourself in the position of the local community, how would you feel if a newcomer was unwilling, or indeed unable, to mix with you?

Source: ExpatForum.com