Well, you are on your way. You feel excited, anxious, scared, and happy, all together. A whole roller coaster of emotions. So much unknown comes with the move. All these changes will push us to learn. We will discover that there are things we control. There are also things that we just can’t control. Stop overthinking the “what if,” and just try to focus on the “here and now” and go ahead.

Consider that another effect of the COVID outbreak has been fears of being away, abroad, and getting sick. This was and, still is, an extra challenge for people when facing moving abroad. These mixed emotions can frighten you. Try not to panic because it is completely natural to feel that way. Things have changed. Reality is different, let us just try to consider there is no sign that anything like that will happen.

Missing important moments

The fear of missing out, FOMO, now is real. You will miss small and even important, celebrations. Although social media helps, and technology lets us stay connected, nothing will replace the physical “being there.” This is just part of the game. You will live new experiences and they will live theirs. Life will go on for both parties. Admit it. Accept it.

Tips that help to cope

We put tips together. These help you cope with the mixed feelings that result from moving away from your comfort zone. Hope they help!

• Allow yourself to feel guilty if you miss home
• Share your feelings with others
• Get “familiar “with the new place.
• Build new routines
• Open to new experiences and new people
• Look after your body and take care of your meals
• Remember your personal goal The why you made this decision.
• Stay connected. Take advantage from social media

Changing your mind

You decided to go through a studying abroad program. You made a move and traveled for whatever reason. It does not mean you need to stick to it if you are suffering.

See your options. If moving back ends up being the right decision, there is nothing wrong with it. It is the best for you after you have seen all the alternatives. At least you tried it and have a new clarity of what you want. There is no one-way road in life. It is not a binary system. You need to find what works for you.

Ask for help

You are moving to study or for a job. You also just be willing to live an adventure. The decision create internal and external struggles. There is guilt within or from people around us. Feeling guilt is so tricky that it makes it exceedingly difficult to find what is best for you from what is best for other people

If you feel sad, or depressed. If you have difficulties concentrating, seek support. If you have an eating or sleeping disorder, talk to someone. If you do not see improvement during the first few weeks, reach out for help.

There are ways to ask for help. Your mental health must be a priority. You don’t need to suffer. Most international ex-pat insurances offer professional support. They help cope with anxiety and stress issues related to relocating and cultural adjustment. Just ask.