The first year abroad tends to be the hardest due to the vast amounts of change in a short amount of time. You're faced with a new way of life: culture, language, and bureaucracy. Maybe you're starting a new job or moving in with a previously long-distance partner. You might be experiencing isolation and lonliness as you begin building a life and network in your new country. Even though this is a very exciting time, it can bring up many uncomfortable feelings. 

Once the initial culture shock settles, you might find yourself facing new or familiar struggles. Maybe some of the challenges you faced in your first year have remained or become more challenging. Perhaps you're struggling with cultural differences or feeling seen and heard while speaking your new language. Maybe your self-esteem has taken a nose-dive or you're not sure who you are anymore. 

As with life in your home country, maybe you're having difficulties in your personal or professional relationships, are transitioning into parenthood, or are grieving the loss of a loved one. The challenges of life don't stop when we move countries, but they can become more complicated.