Moving abroad is an opportunity to start all over, get a better job, achieve your career goals, and meet new people. But, for all these benefits, being an expat also has its challenges: until you adapt to the local culture, it’s possible to feel lonely, isolated, and homesick. In fact, statistics show that ex-pat workers are at double the risk of experiencing mental health conditions compared to domestic workers who never moved abroad, with anxiety and depression being the most common ones. If you’re an expat living in Hong Kong, the culture shock can be pretty big and adjusting to your new life may take a while. And if at home you have the support system of your family and friends, now the time zone might prevent you from spending enough time with them over the phone. Contacting a therapist is always an option, but you might feel that your options are limited when you don’t know the language or what therapy entails in your new location. But don’t worry, because you can choose online therapy for Hong Kong and learn to overcome your challenges in a healthy, sustainable way.
How does online therapy work?
Online therapy has existed for several years now but, after the lockdown, when most therapist offices were closed, it became incredibly popular. The principles of online therapy are the same as regular therapy but, instead of being in the same room with your therapist, you’ll discuss everything online, via text chat or video call.
You don’t need anything more than a stable Internet connection and a smartphone or laptop for online therapy. You can establish the time and frequency of the meetings with your therapist, depending on your needs and schedule.
What are the benefits of online therapy for expats in Hong Kong?
You already know why getting in touch with a therapist can benefit your mental health, but what makes this solution particularly beneficial for expats living in Hong Kong?
- Adapt to your new life much easier. It’s normal to be a bit nervous or homesick when moving to a new country, but prolonged stress, anxiety, and depression may prevent you from adapting to your new home. Left untreated, these feelings can affect you in the long run. Talking to a therapist will help you cope with these feelings and gain more confidence.
- No cultural or language barrier. An English-speaking therapist is easy to communicate with because they understand your native culture. This will make your bond stronger and you’ll feel more at ease to open up.
- Convenient. Even if you do find an English-speaking therapist in Hong Kong, getting to their office can be complicated and time consuming, especially for someone who just moved in. Online therapy is much more convenient because you don’t have to worry about commuting or fitting sessions into your work schedule.
If adapting to your new life hasn’t been as easy as expected, or you simply need someone to talk to, online therapy is an option. There are many experienced therapists who can schedule sessions with expats in Hong Kong, so don’t hesitate to reach out to one today.
