This week I presented an “Adaptation to Canada” talk at the “Welcome to Canada” series organized through the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society. When we relocate to a new country or city, many stress factors come into play, i.e. navigating job search; cultural/language differences; new friendships/relationships. In addition, we are grieving the family/relationships, country or city/hometown we just left behind. The settlement period can take anywhere from 1 – 5 years or more. This period can be challenging, and depression, anxiety, and grief can set in. Healthy ways of coping include self care and physical exercise, building a routine, initiating contact with new friends, and resourcing/asking for help.
