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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Depression > Moved to a new country
Posted on: 06/28/2007
Question
I am a 16 year old girl and I temporarily moved to a third world country about nine months ago. Since I've been here I've gotten sick many times including parasites and a urinary infection. I got treated for the more serious things but I haven't felt well since about two months after I got here. I am really unhappy here and have often even felt depressed. My hair is increasingly falling out, I've lost weight, I never feel that hungry, my skin has gotten really bad, and I don't feel like myself any more. Lately, I've been feeling weak and tired, like I dont have any energy. What is wrong with me? My mom thinks it has something to do with hormonal stress because I'm so unhappy, but if that is what it is what can I do about it?
Answer
I think you should start by going back to your parents and stressing how you continue to feel poorly both physically and mentally. Hopefully they will get you further evaluation of your health to rule out or treat some disease that might be causing your symptoms. Otherwise acknowledging that adjustment to a new situation takes time. It usually take one to two years before people feel settled in a place. Trying to find at least one person who might become a good friend can help. Is there a club or group that does something that interests you? I remember that when I lived in a developing country I could afford daily tennis lessons because they cost so much less than here. Sometimes going home for summer camp or a visit to grandparents can clear the air so that you feel more positive when go back. Finally if all else seems impossible is going to a boarding school in you home country a possibility. Sometimes this works out very well. Good Luck!