How does emigration affect mental health and personal development?

Psychological preparation for emigration

In our previous conversation, Olga, we discussed a key topic — the psychological preparation necessary for those considering moving abroad. This process involves not only engaging in a series of mental exercises but also the option to seek professional advice from psychologists or coaches. It is fundamentally important for everyone to carefully analyze their current life situation and choose the right path to address the challenges they face.

Determination and achieving goals

How successfully do you maintain your determination and achieve your set goals? Or do you work on timely abandoning tasks that have become irrelevant? To achieve more tangible results, it is helpful to take special tests that help identify your psychological profile. Based on these analyses, professionals can predict potential difficulties that may arise in the future, which is very important for immigrants preparing for a new life.

The connection between mental health and life challenges

Psychological health is closely linked to the number of life challenges one faces. When a person has a stable state of mind, they encounter fewer obstacles. However, it is important to remember that it is impossible to be fully prepared for every challenge. I often share with my clients the idea that emigration is more like a journey of self-discovery than just a change of residence. Here, finding harmony is essential:

• On one hand, it is essential to be able to deal with problems,
• on the other hand — to develop inner calmness in order to avoid stress.

Various methods, such as meditation and mindfulness, as well as the latest approaches in psychology, are becoming increasingly popular and can help in this situation.

Psychological challenges of emigration

Emigration, as many claim, can bring to light the imperfect aspects of mental health. At home, many feel a sense of security due to the familiar environment, which allows them to live normally, even if there are internal conflicts. People simply learn to live with it, find compromises, and continue to move forward. However, being abroad, such a way of behaving may lose its effectiveness.

It's interesting that successful immigrants become more confident and harmonious, as emigration opens up the opportunity for awareness and change of the ineffective behaviors that accompanied them.

Forecasting success abroad

As for forecasting, for people who were unable to realize their talents in their homeland, the likelihood of successful adaptation may be quite low. You are asking about those who emigrated from post-Soviet countries, for whom this choice has essentially meant a break with the past. Their difficulties were often related to a lack of opportunities for self-realization, the absence of invitations to publish their work or participate in any events, as well as various restrictions.

Opportunities for self-realization

Nevertheless, it is important to analyze the situation more broadly. Even if a person has faced certain difficulties, they could still contribute something meaningful and valuable to the world. Everyone has their unique path and potential, and with persistence, it becomes possible to find one's place abroad by applying previous efforts and skills. This process highlights the importance of personal predisposition and inner strength in participating in the adaptation to a new cultural environment.

In my reflections, I addressed those people who, despite the lack of actual literary activity, were convinced that their works would surpass those of other authors. These elderly members of the diaspora now spend their days in Brighton Beach, expressing dissatisfaction both with American society and with their homeland. Clearly, there are no iconic figures among them, like Joseph Brodsky or Rudolf Nureyev. These individuals have left no significant mark either in their homeland or in America. If they had not left Russia, their failures would likely have been less noticeable. Among the Soviet five-story buildings, there was a certain stability in the lives of all the residents.

Nevertheless, two people made the decision to move. One of them, despite the lack of publications, continued to work actively and eventually found his path to success. His emigration turned out to be a justified choice that opened new horizons for him and possibly led to fame. Brodsky and Nureyev faced a similar fate. The other, who once spent time in the kitchen criticizing Soviet realities, is now also continuing to express his views, already residing in Brighton Beach. Undoubtedly, his existence has become significantly easier and more comfortable than in his home country.

Interview with Olga Podolskaya

Recently, I conducted an interview with Olga Podolskaya, who shared her thoughts on her life journey and career path.

“It is important to note that the past years of my life have been full of diversity and intensity, not to mention that they have also been quite challenging. The situations, the countries I have found myself in, and the emotions I have experienced have given me a unique opportunity to influence the perception of others' problems, relying on my own experience rather than just theoretical conclusions. Having gone through various professions—from journalism to finance—I have returned to psychology, but now with a completely new perspective.”

My existence has undergone numerous transformations, allowing me to form a multifaceted personality that synthesizes many opposites. Sometimes it seems to me that I am the most practical of romantics and the most sensitive of cynics at the same time. Throughout my life, I have had to change not only my places of residence but entire countries; not just my hobbies but also my career paths. I have modified not only my daily habits but also my overall lifestyle.

Problems of successful people

In literature, you often come across essays like: "I sit by the Seine and long for the Neva. I can't seem to grasp a dream." This reflects the psychological issue that successful people face.

Changes around us

Being in one place can hide from us the changes happening around us. The street that used to be our favorite gradually undergoes changes, and sometimes we don't notice that the familiar "right Tverskaya" no longer exists. However, as soon as we leave our familiar surroundings, say, finding ourselves on the banks of the Seine, it becomes clear that the street of our youth has disappeared.

At this moment, you realize that your past remains somewhere far away, and the street you remember lives only in your memory. If you think carefully about this situation and conduct a kind of thought experiment, you may notice that many people indeed return to their youthful memories, experiencing nostalgic feelings. However, when deciding to revisit that place, it often happens that your favorite corner of the city has changed beyond recognition.

Emigration issues

Emigration is undoubtedly a unique and often painful experience that is extremely difficult to come to terms with. We face the sad reality that the old, familiar places have left us. In such moments, thoughts arise about the inevitability of loss, leading to deep reflections on what has happened.

For many active and determined individuals, who are used to influencing the reality around them, it is quite difficult to accept the fact that some aspects of their lives can no longer be restored. This serves as a source of a vicious cycle that is hard to escape — a person can become trapped in their emotions, trying to regain what has been lost.

Typical difficulties faced by immigrants

Olga, what typical difficulties do emigrants face? What requests do you encounter in your professional activities?

I would highlight two main categories.

• First categoryIt includes people with strong willpower and outstanding talents. At the beginning of their lives in a new country, they often do not experience significant psychological difficulties. With enthusiasm, they start working and strive to change their environment. However, when they achieve a certain level of success and realize that they have accomplished a lot, they may be overwhelmed by a wave of nostalgia. These feelings can lead to confusion, and sometimes even to depression or more serious disorders. In such moments, the support of a psychologist becomes essential, and fortunately, in most cases, it is manageable.
• Second categoryIt encompasses those who have found themselves outside their country due to random circumstances. This often includes the wives of successful careerists, and less frequently, men who follow their wives. Among them are also elderly people who have moved to a new country to be closer to their children. These individuals face entirely different problems, and they often begin to recognize them much earlier than those who have relocated intentionally. It is very important for such people to seek psychological help right away, so they do not lose focus on their goals and tasks. They need to create an internal reserve of strength, as they may initially lack it.

Vulnerability of forced migrants

Olga, you mentioned the groups of "led people" — those who left their homeland not by their own choice. Are they really in a more vulnerable position?

Yes, migrants who have become so out of necessity often face difficulties in adapting. They frequently feel lost and remain on the sidelines, sadly reflecting on the new, unfamiliar environment that surrounds them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize how important psychological preparation is for those who decide to start a new life abroad. This process is not limited to just learning the language or cultural nuances; it involves deep self-work. Emigration is not just a change of residence; it is a whole journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

As I mentioned earlier, it is important to pay special attention to your inner states, and to understand that sometimes every difficulty can become an opportunity for growth. There are times when a person faces recurring problems, and emigration only highlights their presence. That is why it is crucial to focus on self-reflection and to seek effective methods for changing your habits and behavior patterns.

Key aspects of successful immigration:

• Flexibility- the ability to adapt to new conditions.
• Self-reflection- analysis of one's internal reactions and habits.
• Readiness for change- openness to new opportunities and experiences.

It's also important to remember that successful emigration requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to changes. Sometimes, those who struggled with challenges in their home country will face similar difficulties in a new country. Conversely, those who have managed to find their path and realize themselves here may discover new horizons abroad.

I believe that every immigration story is unique, and with the right approach, one can achieve harmony and success in a new place. Each of us has the opportunity to let go of outdated beliefs and ineffective patterns, gaining new experiences and knowledge. And although challenges are inevitable, I am confident that they can be overcome with mindfulness, self-help practices, and, if necessary, professional assistance.

In summary

Thus, emigration can become not only a challenge but also an opportunity for profound personal growth. Be open to change and prepare to discover new horizons — this is the path to true enlightenment.