By Dr. Sai Joshi Reading time: 2 minutes
As an Indian immigrant psychologist residing in the UK, I have had the privilege of assisting individuals
from diverse backgrounds in their journey towards mental well-being. Through my experiences, I have
come to realize the critical need for counseling tailored specifically to dependent immigrants,
particularly those from Indian and Asian cultures. These individuals often grapple with a unique set of
challenges stemming from financial dependence, deeply ingrained cultural gender roles, professional
dilemmas, and a sense of under-qualification. In this article, I will shed light on these challenges and
emphasize the significance of counseling in addressing them.
1. Financial Dependence as a Spouse:
Dependent immigrants often find themselves in a position of
financial reliance, especially when they move abroad due to their spouse’s employment opportunities.
This reliance can lead to feelings of disempowerment and low self-esteem. In many Indian families,
traditional gender roles place a significant burden on male breadwinners, while female partners are
expected to manage domestic responsibilities. This can be particularly taxing for those who had thriving
careers in their home countries.
Take the example of Neha, an accomplished banker in India, who had to leave her job when her
husband’s job brought them to the UK. She struggled with the transition, feeling financially dependent
and grappling with a loss of identity. Counseling provided Neha with a safe space to explore her
emotions and eventually develop strategies to rebuild her confidence and potentially re-enter the
workforce.
2. Cultural Ideas of Gender Roles in Household Responsibilities:
Cultural norms regarding gender roles
can exacerbate the stress of dependent immigrants. Many Asian societies place a heavy emphasis on the
woman’s role as the primary caregiver and homemaker. This can conflict with the aspirations of women
who seek professional fulfillment.
Consider Raj, who moved to the Europe with his wife and two children. Back in India, his wife managed
all household responsibilities, but in their new setting, they both had to share these duties. Raj struggled
with feelings of guilt and inadequacy, as he felt the weight of societal expectations. Through counseling,
Raj learned to communicate openly with his wife about their roles, gradually dismantling the mental
barriers he had erected due to cultural norms.
3. Professional Dilemma and Under-Qualification:
Dependent immigrants often find themselves
grappling with a sense of under-qualification when compared to their home country experiences. Many
immigrants are highly educated and skilled in their fields, yet face barriers such as language,
accreditation issues, or different professional standards in their adopted country.
Take the example of Priya, a trained architect from India, who found herself working as a cashier in the
Germany due to difficulties in obtaining recognition for her qualifications. Priya battled feelings of
frustration and self-doubt. Counseling helped Priya reframe her perspective, emphasizing her
transferable skills and supporting her in exploring alternative avenues in architecture or related fields.
In conclusion, the struggles faced by dependent immigrants, especially those from Indian and Asian
backgrounds, are often hidden beneath the surface. The need for tailored counseling cannot be
overstated. It provides a lifeline for individuals to voice their challenges, gain insights, and develop
coping strategies. Counseling empowers individuals to renegotiate their identities, challenge traditional
norms, and make informed decisions about their personal and professional lives.
As a psychologist with first-hand experience of these challenges, I am committed to raising awareness
about the importance of counseling for dependent immigrants. By acknowledging these struggles and
providing the necessary support, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and empathetic society that
values the mental well-being of all its members.
(Names have been changed for the confidentiality purpose)
You can always reach out for professional help, that is available with us. At AYUDA MIND CARE, counselling is affordable, accessible and effective.
