How to support children’s mental health while moving abroad?

Supporting children's mental health when moving abroad is a very important topic. 

Moving to a new country can be a stressful and challenging experience for children, especially if they have to leave behind their friends, family, and familiar environment. They may feel lonely, anxious, sad, or angry, and have difficulties adjusting to the new culture, language, and school. They may feel powerless about big decisions affecting their lives and this can cause anxiety or depression.

Parents and caregivers need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of homesickness and mental health issues in their children, and provide them with the appropriate support and care. 

Ways to support your child's mental health when moving

“Luck is where opportunity meets preparation.”

If possible visit the new country with your children before moving, show them pictures and videos of the place, to help them familiarize themselves with the new environment and reduce their anxiety.

Enroll them in age appropriate play schools/ language schools to get the grips of basics of the language. If there are no language schools available near you, find classes or private tutoring online. These are brilliant for the whole family since you can take part in learning the new language with your child. This also sets an example of life long learning to your child which will be invaluable when they grow older.  

Together is always better

 Involve your children in the moving process and share the experience with them. Let them have a say in choosing the house, the school, and the activities they want to do. Make them feel part of the decision and excited about the move. 

Give them choices and respect their decisions. They might want to try out robotics classes or rugby. If financially possible support their hobbies as much as possible. Hobbies and activities are much more likely places for children and young people to connect than partially forced adult organized playdates or meetups. 

You might mean well trying to find friends for your preteen but imagine the situation otherway. Your preteen connecting with complete strangers online saying “My dad/mom is feeling a bit lonely, does anyone have a parent interested in cooking and cleaning who would like to connect with them”. 

”Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.”

- Find a good school that meets your children's needs and preferences. Consider factors such as curriculum, language, facilities, diversity, and extracurricular activities. Try to enroll your children in a school that has other expat or migrant students who can relate to their situation. Many times the choice of schools is not up to you. Even if you have the monetary funds the ideal school for your child might be full or the commute would prove to be over an hour each way. Helping your child to learn the basics of the language and learning them together with your child is one way of broadening the spectrum of school choices not to mention it will make the transition easier when at least the language is somehow familiar. 

Home is where your heart is

- Choose a suitable area or neighborhood that is safe, convenient, and family-friendly. Look for places that have parks, playgrounds, shops, health care facilities, and other amenities that your children can enjoy. Try to find a community that is welcoming and supportive of newcomers. Especially in the beginning, finding support and encouragement among other expat and migrant families can be a vital asset. 

Planning is bringing the future into the present
Plan and do lots of research about your new country's culture, history, politics, laws, and customs. Learn about the dos and don'ts, the etiquette, the festivals, and the traditions of your new country.

Teach your children about these aspects and encourage them to respect and appreciate the diversity. Watch movies and series about the country before the move. Have cookouts where you try local dishes, make dream boards with your kids about what they want to see or do once there.

Make it fun and concrete for them!

An exciting adventure to be embarked!

Embrace all emotions

Accept that moving abroad is going to be hard and that your children may experience some negative emotions and reactions. Don't dismiss or minimize their feelings, but acknowledge and validate them. Be patient and understanding with your children and let them express themselves freely. They will get lonely, they will miss their friends and family. Don’t take it personally “It’s your fault we moved into this stupid country” but listen and be open about your emotions  “I know how you feel, sometimes I get lonely too but then I think of all the things we have already seen and all the things we still have to see, all the things we’re able to do know and I realize I am homesick and missing people and that’s okay, it just means I have a lot of love in my life” 

Open your senses together

Encourage your children to embrace the new culture and language of your new country. Help them learn some basic words and phrases that they can use to communicate with others. Expose them to the local food, music, art, and entertainment. Involve them in cultural activities and events that can enrich their knowledge and experience. Expose yourself and your children to the language as much as possible. Follow influencers with your interests on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. Listen to music and watch shows or movies. 

Stay connected

Stay connected with your family and friends from home. Use phone calls, video chats, emails, or social media to keep in touch with your loved ones. Share your stories, photos, and videos with them. Let your children talk to their old friends and relatives regularly. Have a family snapchat where you and your child can share daily things from your life with relatives and encourage and teach the older generation to use it too.

Don’t forget to have fun

Enjoy the move and have fun with your children. Make the most of your time in your new country and explore its attractions and opportunities. Visit museums, parks, restaurants, or other places of interest. Join clubs, activities, or events that match your hobbies and passions. Create unforgettable memories with your children. Document your life abroad for yourself and for them. Celebrate your traditional holidays from back home and incorporate them to your new life. 

Create your home away from home

 Choose a comfortable house that meets your family's needs and budget. Bring some home comforts with you such as photos, souvenirs, books, music, or food. Decorate your house with things that reflect your personality and style. Create a cozy and familiar atmosphere in your house. Familiar pillow case or an old tea towel can create a cozy feeling and help you feel connected to those far away. 

Don’t forget the basics

Organize good health care for your children in your new country. Find out what kind of health care services and coverage are available in your new country and whether you need to buy additional insurance. Find a reliable and trustworthy doctor who can speak your language or understand your culture. Get your children vaccinated if needed. 

Ask for help

Seek professional help if needed for your children's mental health issues. If you notice that your children are showing signs of depression, anxiety, isolation or hopelessness for a long time or if they are having trouble functioning normally at school or at home you may need professional help. Find a therapist or counselor who specializes in working with expat or migrant children who can provide emotional support guidance coping skills.