S1E3: Lost and found, in search of self

We are here, too - on mental health abroad

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Have you ever grappled with the multi-layered challenges of cultural identity as a foreigner?
When we move abroad, our sense of identity changes, and there could be many reasons for this. Leaving our home, community, and cultural background and adapting to a new environment can be challenging and lead to feelings of identity confusion and loss. For many people, their cultural identity is closely tied to their sense of self (and only recently, I discovered that was my case, too).
I'm Francesca, an Italian living in Scotland, and I'm here to share my experience and guide you through the maze of cultural stereotypes, expectations, and the sense of being a second-class citizen - all of which can lead to a profound identity crisis.
As we navigate this journey, we'll uncover the stress and anxiety attached to cultural identity when living abroad and I'll offer you actionable steps to cope with the ongoing identity crisis. We'll explore how you can ground yourself in a new environment and find your sense of self amidst the chaos. We'll discuss strategies to adapt and integrate into a new society.
If you're feeling directionless and unsettled, let's team up to navigate this significant change in your life.
If you want to hear more about this topic:
S3E1: Finding the self between borders

S4E4: Identity tetris and how to fit different pieces of yourself together abroad

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We are here, too is a podcast about mental health and life abroad, hosted by Francesca Lo Verso, an Italian counsellor living in Scotland.
We are here, too exists thanks to the support of friends, family and those of you whose testimony of life abroad inspired me. Thank you!
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Host and editor: Francesca Lo Verso
www.francescacounselling.com
IG: @francesca_counselling
FB: francescaloversocounselling
Email: [email protected]
Cover illustration: Candela Sánchez
www.candelasanchezart.com
IG: @delasre_draws
Music: Su San
TikTok: susanwithaspace
Spotify: Su San

فصول

1. S1E3: Lost and found, in search of self (00:00:00)

2. Discrepancies between expectations and reality (00:03:30)

3. How do we cope with the loss of identity? (00:06:47)

4. An action plan (00:08:27)