Carelis Conde, a Cuban psychologist living in the United States, has addressed a topic that is touching hearts 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 highlights the psychological impact that moving to another country after the age of 40 can have on many individuals.
"My mom has always been a very strong, independent person, a professional doctor in Cuba; she was always the matriarch of the family. However, after she came to the United States, she does nothing on her own, constantly depends on her children, hardly ever leaves the house, and doesn't want to go to the doctor's appointment alone because she says she might forget what they tell her..." shares @carelisconde Carelis, reflecting a reality that many are familiar with.
The psychologist explains that this process is not easy: "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's not experienced in the same way. It's about changing your mindset and being reborn as an adult." Additionally, she details that symptoms can range from anxiety and depression to memory problems and emotional dependency.
To face these difficulties, Carelis advises patience, love, and family support: "Don't criticize, support the grieving process, try to listen and be present… Everything will pass as you show them that you are there, and that there is no rush."
The reactions came swiftly. Users from all over the world shared their experiences and expressed their gratitude for the content. "No one has said it so loud and clear. It happened to me too, but I'm getting through it"; "I've been at this for years and I'm still in the process of reorganizing my life"; "Absolutely right, I lost 15 kilos and I rely on my son to handle errands"; "It's a very drastic 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 when I was just 20, and I experienced most of those symptoms; I can't imagine what it's like for someone older”; “It's like being born again”; “Tell me about it, I was independent my entire 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 been able to articulate what many feel, making it clear that with patience and support, the process of adaptation is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Emotional Consequences of Emigrating as an Adult
What are the most common emotional consequences of emigrating in adulthood?
The most common emotional repercussions include anxiety, depression, and emotional dependency. Emigrating at an older age involves a drastic change not only physically but also psychologically, which can lead to memory issues and a strong emotional dependency on close family members.
How can family members support older adults who have emigrated?
Family members can provide support by showing patience, love, and being present during the adaptation process. It is important not to criticize, but to help the elderly cope with the emotional grief that comes with changing countries by listening to them and providing constant emotional support.
Why is it especially difficult to emigratе 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, making it emotionally more challenging to adapt to a new environment.
What role do social media play in the lives of older emigrants?
Social media is a crucial tool for staying connected with family and friends in the home country. It allows older emigrants to share their experiences, find emotional support, and reduce the feeling of isolation by connecting with others facing similar situations.
Filed under:
