Hello, Going Expat people,
It has been a while, but we are back with a super interesting guest post written for us by Panos Georgakis about the psychological cost of migration.
Indeed, migration is a huge phenomenon which affects people in different ways and from different points of view. I was so happy when Panos decided to share this great article with me and all of us.
Please take the time to read through and connecting with him.
Let’s meet our author before going to read his words and learn more about migration:
Panos is an Integrative Therapist and Coach, based in Rotterdam. He works with adults in individual counseling sessions. At the same time, he collaborates with companies and organizations, providing psychological support and guidance to employees.
What is the “psychological cost” of migration?
Like every major change, migration can provoke intense, and often negative, emotions. Even when it is a conscious choice, filled with positive expectations and the excitement of a new beginning, it still carries the weight of loss. The migrant leaves behind friends, relatives, their language, and the way of life they were accustomed to. It is as if they close the door on a familiar world and open another, unknown one, full of challenges.
This sense of loss is often accompanied by sadness, nostalgia, guilt, and anxiety. A person may feel that they have “betrayed” those left behind or that they no longer belong anywhere. And while struggling with these emotions, they begin to realize that it is not only what they left behind, but also what lies ahead, that makes the transition difficult.
One of the most critical issues during this phase is identity confusion. The migrant is called to ask once again who they are, as an individual, a partner, a parent, and a professional. Within a new social and cultural framework, where values and expectations differ, they may feel as if the solid ground beneath their feet has disappeared. Managing these emotions and redefining identity requires time and conscious effort. Each person experiences this process differently, depending on personality, preparation, and support networks, both at home and in the host country.
The Challenges Continue
Migration is a profound transformation that extends far beyond the psychological level. The expatriate must face challenges in key areas that determine the quality of life and successful integration: social, political, and economic.
Socio-political adaptation depends greatly on the environment of the host country. In societies that embrace diversity, migrants find a welcoming space to build their lives. In others, where prejudice prevails, they may experience isolation. Successful integration requires active participation, learning the language, building relationships, and engaging with the new society’s institutions. This cultural “dialogue” does not mean losing one’s identity but creating a dynamic blend of both cultures.
Economic challenges are often among the greatest. Migrants usually move in search of a better life and income, but success depends on preparation, ensuring that degrees and professional experience are recognized in the new labour market. Without this recognition, there is a risk of professional and financial downgrading, which can intensify stress and disappointment.
Migration and the Family
When a family migrates, every member is affected, the partner and the children alike. Migration offers new opportunities but can also threaten family cohesion if not managed carefully.
The partner often leaves behind a career and identity, leading to feelings of isolation or loss of purpose. Research shows that migration can test relationships, especially if there were already difficulties. Everyday life also changes: a new home, a new language, and new systems (schools, public services). Family cohesion becomes vital; when parents and children talk openly and support one another, adaptation is smoother.
For children, migration can be one of life’s most significant changes. They may feel the loss of their home, friends, and familiar routines, while facing a new school, language, and culture. Identity confusion may arise “Where do I belong?” Yet these “Third Culture Kids” often become more adaptable and resilient, developing strong intercultural skills.
Adaptation can be supported through:
- Secure family bonds and open communication
- Parents modeling resilience and optimism
- Connection with schools, community groups, and migrant associations
- Professional psychological support when needed
The Value of Migrant Communities
Migrant communities play a vital role in helping newcomers adapt. They provide emotional support, cultural continuity, and practical help, from advice on schools to guidance about everyday life. Staying connected to one’s cultural roots offers a sense of stability during this major transition.
However, isolation within one’s ethnic group can hinder adaptation. The best approach is integration, maintaining one’s culture while engaging actively with the host society. Families benefit from both the comfort of their community and the opportunities of their new environment.
The Stages of Adaptation
Adaptation unfolds gradually and typically follows four stages:
- Enthusiasm and Curiosity – The “honeymoon phase,” filled with excitement and optimism.
- Shock and Difficulty – Reality sets in; challenges such as language barriers and loneliness appear.
- Gradual Familiarization – Routines form, friendships develop, and confidence grows.
- Long-Term Adaptation – A balance emerges between the old and new cultures.
About the phases of adaptation and culture shock we talked in another post some time ago
Migration is a long and deeply personal journey. It is not merely a change of place but a transformation that touches the soul, reshapes identity, and redefines daily life. Every migrant carries within them the world they left behind and must build a new one — balancing between two cultures.
No matter how difficult the process, adaptation is always possible. With preparation, family support, and an open mind, individuals and families can overcome obstacles and discover new dimensions of themselves. Migration, ultimately, can become a source of growth, resilience, and rich experience, proof that while our roots remain alive, we can plant new ones wherever we go.
I cannot thank Panos enough for this wonderful blog post about such an important topic. Hopefully it can help you folks understanding better your feelings or the feeling of the people who are around you and migrated.
Take care and talk to you all soon
Rossella
