The Expat Therapist: Navigating Mental Health and Dreams Abroad

070 The Guilt of Relief: Americans Living Abroad

Season 3 Episode 70

Living abroad as an American right now comes with a complicated mix of emotions. Relief. Guilt. Fear. Gratitude. And a deep concern for the people we love who are still back home.

In this episode, I speak honestly about what it feels like to live outside of the U.S. during a time of rising hatred, instability, and collective grief. I share why the sense of relief I feel living abroad exists right alongside guilt for feeling it.

This conversation isn’t about politics — it’s about humanity, safety, and the emotional toll of watching from afar. It’s about what it means to love a country, question it, grieve it, and still hope for better.

If you’re an American living abroad and you’ve felt this emotional tug-of-war — or you’re considering leaving and carrying similar fears — you are not alone. Two truths can coexist at once: you can seek peace for yourself and still care deeply about those you left behind.

If this episode resonated, find me on social media (TikTok and Insta) and send me a DM. 

Tell me what you need right now to feel supported. 

✨What conversations are missing? 

✨What would help you feel less alone? 

Let’s build a community that meets the emotional needs of Americans living abroad — together.

Because none of us were meant to hold this alone.

✨ Follow me on TikTok and Insta (Comment/DM and tell me what you would like to hear more of!)