The unspoken words of moving to another country: The suitcase

Moving to a new country without your close family or childhood friends brings a blend of hope and uncertainty. Although the prospect of new opportunities excites many, the emotional challenges of learning a new language, adapting to unfamiliar cultural norms, and feeling a lack of belonging can be a significant burden for immigrants.

These experiences shape not only how newcomers interact with their new environment but also how they see themselves and their place in the world.

The Emotional Weight of Leaving Home

Moving away from familiar surroundings means leaving behind more than just a physical place. Immigrants often face the loss of daily routines, close community ties, and cultural traditions that once provided comfort and identity. This separation can lead to feelings of loneliness, sadness, and even grief.

The sense of identity can be shaped by many experiences, and these transformations are normal. We are evolving, we are fusing into a world of many opportunities; however, this could bring a feeling of guilt and confusion

Learning a New Language: More Than Words

Language is a key to connection, but mastering a new one is a steep challenge. Immigrants often experience frustration and self-doubt as they struggle to communicate basic needs or express complex emotions. This can lead to social isolation and a sense of invisibility.

Consider a child who arrives at school speaking little of the local language. They may feel embarrassed or anxious about speaking in class, which affects their confidence and social interactions. Adults, too, may find it difficult to navigate workplaces or public services, increasing stress and dependence on others.

Cultural Adjustment and the Search for Belonging

Every culture has its own set of unspoken rules and social expectations. Immigrants must learn these new norms while balancing their own cultural identity. This balancing act can cause confusion and internal conflict. The feeling of ''How am I?''

For instance, customs around communication styles, gender roles, or social etiquette may differ greatly from what immigrants are used to. A newcomer might hesitate to participate in community events or avoid forming friendships due to fear of misunderstanding or rejection.

This struggle often leads to a feeling of not belonging anywhere fully—caught between the culture left behind and the new one being learned. This emotional state can impact mental health and overall well-being.

Moving Forward with Compassion and Understanding

Adjusting to a new language and culture is a deeply personal and emotional journey. Recognising the struggles immigrants face helps build empathy and support systems that make integration smoother. Families, communities, and institutions all have a part to play in creating environments where newcomers feel valued and included.

For those embarking on this path, remember that feeling out of place is a natural part of change. With time, effort, and support, the sense of belonging can grow stronger, turning a foreign land into a new home. 

Embrace the process, seek connections, and allow space for both challenges and triumphs.

Remember your own uniqueness !!

When I moved to the UK, everything changed; everything I had learned in my life was altered, and a new sense of self began to emerge.

The identity confusion began '' feeling in between two cultures' and not fully belonging to the old or the new.

In conclusion, I have learned that there is no single way to view life; we adapt and evolve as humans.

I think about my daughter moving to Australia for a year, and I find myself reflecting on my own past experiences in life.

The suitcase is still here, prepared for me to bring it to new destinations and challenge my own assumptions and beliefs. I'm ready for this journey, and this time, I'll be travelling to Australia with my daughter for a few weeks. Although the visit may be brief, I'm determined not to feel like an "outsider" again, but rather as a curious human being exploring the world we all share, and that's completely fine too.

Suitcase tools

• Connecting with people, talk about your feelings

• Be kind to yourself

• Having an accent is perfectly fine!

• Don't feel guilty for leaving your country

• You are not by yourself; seek out the community organisations.

• It is normal to feel confused; it is a transition

• Your uniqueness is your strength

Abigail Mur

Counsellor and Psychotherapy