Episode 11 - Loneliness as a Migrant: The Part No One Prepares You For

Loneliness is one of the most common — and least talked about — experiences of moving to a new country.In this episode of In Between Life, I talk about the emotional reality of loneliness as a migrant in Australia — something that doesn’t come with visa documents, job offers, or university brochures.From working long hours in hospitality to navigating cultural differences and building friendships from scratch, this episode explores what it really feels like to live far from home.I also connect personal experiences with research from cross-cultural psychology and migration studies, including concepts like acculturative stress and identity shift — to explain why so many immigrants feel isolated, even when surrounded by people.We talk about:• Why loneliness is common among immigrants in Australia• The challenge of making meaningful friendships as an adult• Cultural differences in social life and communication• Staying within your own community vs integrating into a new culture• Identity shifts and the emotional impact of migration• Work-life patterns that increase isolation (especially in hospitality)• How loneliness can also become a space for growth and self-discoveryIf you’re an immigrant, international student, or working professional in Australia who has ever felt alone, disconnected, or in between — this episode will resonate with you.This is not just your experience.It’s a shared reality.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for honest conversations about migrant life in Australia, identity, mental health, hospitality careers, and everything we go through while becoming.Episode References - Berry, J.W. (1997) — Acculturative Stress & AdaptationTajfel & Turner (1979) — Social Identity TheoryWard, Bochner & Furnham (2001) — Culture Shock & AdjustmentStudies in Migration & Cross-Cultural Psychology (Google Scholar)