Moving to the UAE: What Expats Need to Know

Thriving as an Expat: Adjusting to a New Life Abroad with Christi Gadd, M.Sc. // How do you build connection, identity, and balance while living overseas? Moving abroad can be exciting and emotionally challenging. In this episode of Thrive With Us, Dr. Sarah Rasmi talks with Christi Gadd, M.Sc., a licensed psychologist and expat in the UAE, about the emotional journey of adapting to life in a new country. Subscribe for more wellbeing and mental health insights:    / @thrivewithusdxb   Learn more about our full range of counselling and psychological services at Thrive Wellbeing Centre: https://www.thrive.ae Key Takeaways ▪️Expat adjustment brings both growth and grief ▪️Building meaningful social connections supports mental health ▪️Trailing spouses face unique identity challenges ▪️Self-compassion is essential during transitions ▪️You can thrive with the right mindset and support Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5nmjoED... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe. It helps us continue bringing thoughtful conversations about mental health and wellbeing. Disclaimer This podcast is not a substitute for mental health advice or treatment. People are advised to reach out to a qualified healthcare provider should they need medical advice, counselling, and/or therapy regarding the matters that are discussed in this podcast. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:18 Christi's Expat Journey 03:20 Challenges of Expat Life 04:57 Emotional Roller Coaster 06:18 Building a New Support System 09:31 Balancing Old and New Connections 14:21 Empathy for Those Left Behind 26:43 Visitors and Familiarity 27:26 Navigating Grief and Adjustment 28:13 Returning Home: The Challenges 32:36 Identity and the Trailing Spouse 36:52 Building a New Life and Support System 45:36 Self-Compassion and Relationship Dynamics 48:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts