Carelis Conde, a Cuban psychologist living in the United States, has addressed a topic that is resonating with many on TikTok: the emotional repercussions of emigrating at an older age. In her video, which has already garnered over 1,700 likes and 443 shares, Carelis discusses the psychological impact that moving to a new country can have on individuals after the age of 40.
"My mom has always been a very strong, independent person, a professional doctor in Cuba; she was always the matriarch of the family. However, since she came to the United States, she doesn't do anything on her own, constantly relying on her children. She hardly ever leaves the house and doesn’t want to go to the doctor’s office alone because she says she might forget what they tell her..." Carelis shares on her profile @carelisconde, reflecting a reality that many are familiar with.
The psychologist explains that this process is not simple: “Emigrating has a very strong emotional impact... When you are 35, 40, or 65 years old, emigrating is much more than just reuniting with family; it is not experienced in the same way. It is about changing your mindset and being reborn, but as an adult.” She also details that the symptoms can range from anxiety and depression to memory problems and emotional dependency.
To face these challenges, Carelis advises patience, love, and family support: “Do not criticize, support the grieving process, try to listen and be present... Everything will pass as you show them that you are there, that there is no rush.”
The reactions came quickly. Users from all over the world shared their experiences and expressed their gratitude for the content. "No one has said it so loudly and clearly. It happened to me too, but I'm moving on"; "I've been at it for years and I'm still in the process of reorganizing my life"; "Totally true, I lost 15 kilos and depend on my son to handle paperwork"; "It's a very abrupt change for our age"; "I'm going to send this to my son, who doesn't understand why I'm in this state."
Others also reflected on the impact: “I emigrated at just 20 years old and experienced most of those symptoms; I can’t imagine what it must be like for someone older”; “It’s like being reborn”; “Tell me about it, I was independent my whole life, and here I stumbled hard with that change.”
This message has left a great lesson: emigrating is not just a physical change, but an emotional one, and understanding that each person experiences it differently is key to moving forward. Carelis Conde has managed to articulate what many feel, making it clear that with patience and support, the adaptation process is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Emotional Aftermath of Emigrating as an Adult
What are the most common emotional consequences of migrating in adulthood?
The most common emotional repercussions include anxiety, depression, and emotional dependency. Emigrating at an older age involves a drastic change that is not only physical but also psychological, which can lead to memory problems and a strong emotional reliance on close family members.
How can family members support elderly relatives who have emigrated?
Family members can support by showing patience, love, and being present during the adjustment process. It is important not to criticize, but rather to help older adults cope with the emotional grief that comes with moving to a new country, listening to them, and providing constant emotional support.
Why is it especially difficult to emigrate after the age of 40?
Emigrating after the age of 40 is complex because it involves a significant change in a person's established life. At this age, individuals have already formed their routines, identities, and social connections, which makes adapting to a new environment more emotionally challenging.
What role do social media play in the lives of older emigrants?
Social media is a crucial tool for staying in touch with family and friends in the home country. It allows older immigrants to share their experiences, find emotional support, and reduce feelings of isolation by connecting with others facing similar situations.
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