Today, I want to address an issue many of us feel but seldom discuss: loneliness. As expatriates, we often experience a unique form of isolation, one that can deeply impact our mental and physical health.
The Hidden Impact of Loneliness
Did you know that loneliness can increase the risk of early mortality by 26%? It’s true. Loneliness isn't just a fleeting feeling; it can have profound effects on our well-being. For expatriates, the frequent separation from loved ones, cultural adaptation difficulties, and lack of social support lead to heightened levels of chronic and acute stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Why Expats Are More Vulnerable
Loneliness among expatriates correlates strongly with behaviors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and poor dietary habits, further reducing life satisfaction. Studies show that loneliness trigger actual physical pain, as the brain processes social pain similarly to physical pain. Moreover, loneliness is contagious—if one person in a social network feels lonely, it can spread to others.
Surprising Facts About Loneliness
It Can Trigger Physical Pain: Emotional and social pain from loneliness activate the same brain areas as physical pain.
It Makes Us Feel Colder: Research has found that recalling lonely moments can make people perceive the temperature as colder.
It Activates Heightened Stress Response Chronically: Research has found that loneliness triggers us into an over active fight or flight response leading to heightened physical and mental stress.
Addressing Loneliness in Our Community
The good news is that strong social connections can prevent recurrent depressive episodes. Engaging in meaningful relationships and community activities is crucial. In my constant effort to create a more effective therapeutic environment for you. I'm holding Self-Development Group Sessions.
Join Our Self-Development Group Sessions
Starting this August, we are launching Self-Development Group Sessions at the clinic in Cambridge Medical Center, this is for U.A.E. residents. This group is specifically designed to help expatriates like you build connections, look after yourself and develop the right coping strategies. These sessions will provide a supportive environment to share experiences and grow together.
Take the first step towards overcoming loneliness and enhancing your well-being. Register your interest today by sending us an email to info@sarahelnabulsi.com places are very limited.
Remember to follow us on Instagram, the launch of the course series on Anxiety is soon and we'll be giving early access & a chance to some to review the course.
Warm regards,
Sarah El Nabulsi, Clinical Psychologist, M.Sc, M.A.
CEO & Founder of Bliss Consciousness Institute
Dubai Healthcare City,Dubai, UAE
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