BTS Health Digest #17 - Reflections on Depression, Discrimination and other Untold Stories of Japa.
I had a fireside chat two weeks ago on my podcast with Dr. Ogechi Sylvia Eze, a General Practitioner in the United Kingdom, and our conversation stirred a mix of emotions. Relocating to a new country (popularly called Japa) comes with a lot of challenges especially around taking the decision to move, raising funds to moments of doubt whilst also offering numerous opportunities like having the basic amenities of life, working in a system that rewards efforts among other reasons.
However, for immigrants, Nigerians not excluded, this promise of better life comes with bitter pills of racism, discrimination, loneliness, anxiety, stereotyping, depression, and culture shock which must be swallowed. The other option is to go back to where you are coming from, but many choose to swallow the pill with its bitter after taste. While we spoke, I mentally replayed the story I had written in a new book, Cymru & I, where I also recounted some of my challenges in a foreign country.
Despite the UK's diverse and multicultural society, xenophobic attitudes persist, creating significant hurdles for those trying to integrate into the community. Driven by ignorance and fear, these prejudices can make integration difficult, leading to a sense of isolation, exclusion and sometimes, rejection. The emotional toll of loneliness and depression can weigh heavily on immigrants. The absence of familiar faces and the struggle to form meaningful connections in a new environment can exacerbate feelings of alienation and despair.
Feelings of pessimism and despair can be heightened by the difficulties of establishing oneself in a foreign country, which are further complicated by the difficulties of locating acceptable housing and work. The psychological toll of this journey—which is sometimes disregarded and taboo—can leave long-lasting wounds and scars on the minds of people pursuing better lives. I recounted during our interview when she mentioned that she ran back to Nigeria, and the numerous bouts of depression which she successfully recovered from.
Furthermore, adjusting to a new culture can be extremely overwhelming. Acclimatization can be hampered by anything from subtleties in language to social conventions. Many people experience disorientation because of the clash of expectations and realities, feeling cut off from both their past and the society they currently live in.
A lot of immigrants suffer in silence, and hence a lot of untold stories of Japa. I strongly believe that these stories need to be told, and hopefully the conversations would drive the required change.
However, amidst these challenges, there are ways to manage and overcome these obstacles which gave me some glimmer of hope for immigrants. From my conversation with Dr. Ogechi, a couple of coping mechanisms stood out.
Building a support network of fellow immigrants and locals can provide a sense of belonging and understanding.
Engaging in community activities and events can also foster a sense of inclusion and shared experiences.
Moreover, seeking professional help and counselling services can provide a safe space for expressing and processing the emotional upheavals associated with the immigrant experience.
Embracing cultural diversity and actively participating in cultural exchanges can aid in fostering a sense of appreciation and understanding for both one's own heritage and the host culture.
Ultimately, while the journey of an immigrant may be fraught with obstacles be it the UK, US, Canada or anywhere, it is the resilience, determination, and open-mindedness of individuals that can turn these challenges into opportunities for personal growth and integration.
If you have successfully immigrated as a healthcare professional or otherwise, I would love to hear your story, and I am sure our audience would love to. I believe it would inspire others greatly. Send me a mail at ronald@mrimedic.com
YouTube Channel Update
As usual, I spend my free time making insightful videos on YouTube. Here are my top four recommendations:
Some International Health Days in November
November 1st – World Brush Day
November 2nd – National Stress Awareness Day
November 8th – World Radiography Day
November 10th – World Immunization Day
November 14th – World Diabetes Day
Till I write you again,
Have a beautiful November. Â
Cheers,
Dr. Ron
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