Why Loneliness Abroad Doesn’t Mean You Chose Wrong

I’ve definitely had my moments of feeling lonely in London. Loneliness abroad can feel discouraging, but it’s not proof you made a mistake by moving. It’s a natural part of adjusting to a new country, and with time, effort, and connection, it becomes easier to manage. You just have to put in effort to get out and meet new people!

I’ve lived abroad for four years now, and I’ve experienced both sides of the social spectrum. There were seasons where loneliness hit hard. And there were other times where my calendar was so full that I couldn’t take on new friendships.

If you’re moving abroad—or already living abroad—loneliness is part of the journey. It doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision. It just means you’re human, and you’re navigating a big transition.

In this post, we’ll look at why loneliness abroad feels so intense, the main causes behind it, and the practical strategies you can use to cope and build community.

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Why Loneliness Abroad Hits Harder

When you move abroad, you leave behind your family, lifelong friends, and the support network you’ve always known. Starting over from scratch can feel overwhelming.

A few reasons loneliness abroad can hit harder:

• No built-in support system. Everyday connections you once took for granted aren’t there anymore.
• Language barriers and cultural differences. Even in English-speaking countries, accents and slang can make you feel like an outsider at first.
• The “Instagram vs. reality” effect. Friends and family back home might think your life is a constant adventure, but the quiet moments can feel heavy.

When I moved to London, I quickly realized that even though the language was technically English, I couldn’t always keep up. Accents, slang, and subtle cultural differences made me feel disconnected at the start.

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The Many Causes of Loneliness Abroad

Loneliness abroad isn’t caused by one thing—it’s a mix of factors that build up over time.

Lack of local social support

Most people don’t move abroad with a ready-made circle of friends. Building a network from scratch takes effort and time.

Staying connected with home

It’s important to keep in touch with friends and family, but you also need to balance it with building a life in your new country.

• Schedule regular video calls.
• Plan home visits.
• Invite family and friends to visit you.

My rhythm is usually going home twice a year and hosting visitors once a year. It’s a good balance that keeps me connected without pulling me away from building a life abroad.

Language barriers

Even if you’re fluent, accents and slang can make you feel left out. In non-English-speaking countries, it’s even more isolating. Enrolling in a local language class can help. Not only do you learn, but you also meet other newcomers in the same situation.

Cultural adjustment

Traditions, foods, and social norms may feel unfamiliar at first. Instead of resisting, reframe them as part of the adventure. Journaling is a great way to track your growth.

Personality differences

Introverts and extroverts experience the transition differently. Extroverts may meet more people quickly, but introverts often go deeper once they find their circle. Either way, everyone needs people to share life with abroad.

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Practical Strategies to Combat Loneliness

The good news is that loneliness doesn’t last forever. You can take steps to build community.

Find your people abroad

• Follow your hobbies: join sports teams, pottery classes, book clubs, or running groups.
• Be bold: introduce yourself, mention you’re new, ask questions.
• Show up consistently: friendships form over time, not overnight.

Join expat groups

These groups understand what you’re going through because they’re in the same boat. They’re a great starting point, but balance them with local friendships so you don’t stay on the cultural sidelines.

Exercise regularly

Movement boosts mood, builds confidence, and can help you meet people. Group classes or outdoor activities often double as social opportunities.

Say yes more often

When someone invites you to coffee, dinner, or a meetup—even if you feel tired or nervous—say yes. Showing up is half the battle.

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Shifting Your Mindset

Loneliness abroad is temporary. The friendships you make will ebb and flow. Some will last for a season, and others for life.

Feeling lonely doesn’t mean you’re failing. It simply means you’re adjusting. You will meet people you click with, but it takes time, patience, and openness.

View loneliness as a season of growth, not a permanent state.

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Final Thoughts

Loneliness abroad is real—but it doesn’t have to define your experience. By staying connected with home, seeking out community, and saying yes to new opportunities, you can create a rich and fulfilling life abroad.

Have you experienced loneliness while living abroad? I’d love to hear your story—connect with me on Instagram @jordan.giberson.

And if you’re thinking about moving to Europe, don’t forget to take my free quiz to discover your best-fit European city.