People move abroad more so now than ever before but many quit after several months, a year or so for many reasons. One of the common reasons is loneliness and isolation. As expats we have to learn to overcome loneliness while living abroad in order to survive. This can be particularly difficult at the beginning stage while learning to adapt to new way of living.
Luckily, there is a lot you can do to overcome this feeling making it temporary, after all, it is just an inevitable side effect of living abroad. If you are patient with yourself and willing to put in some work, these feelings will eventually pass.
What you can do to help yourself
1. Know that it is normal to feel isolated at the beginning and at different times while living abroad. I felt isolated at different times, not just at the beginning, for me the first six months were the easiest, as it felt more like a holiday. The isolation and home sickness came around 10-12 months into living abroad. Understanding that things may not be easy at first or even for the first year is normal and to be expected after you move. Acknowledging this will allow you to be more kinder to yourself.
2. Meet people not just other Expats but the locals too, this will help you to settle in quicker. It might feel scary, but the more you step out of your comfort zone the easier it becomes. You may need to meet lots of people before you find that one, two or three special closer friends. Apps and websites like Facebook and meetup are great for meeting other people with similar interests.
3. Find a hobby If you’re passionate about something or want to try something new then find out where you can do it in your new local area or try something new. I’ve tried many new things here that I probably would not have tried at home.
Is moving abroad one of the best things you will ever do in your life? YES! Of course it will be. You will have highs and lows but it will give you greater opportunities and experiences in life that you thought was not possible.