“I Lost Myself Abroad”: Janet Bett’s Emotional Testimony on Mental Health in the Diaspora
Living abroad is often glamorized. But behind the success stories are real people silently battling loneliness, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. Janet Bett, a Kenyan who has spent nearly two years abroad, courageously opened up about her struggles—and her words are touching hearts worldwide.
The Truth Behind the “Dream Life Abroad”
“I have lived abroad for nearly two years now and I am not ashamed to say that I have been struggling mentally to adapt…” — Janet Bett
Janet’s honest confession reveals the hidden truth that many avoid speaking about: living abroad isn’t always a dream come true. The emotional toll of being far from family, culture, and community can be overwhelming.
Emotional Burnout, Migraines, and Losing Her Spark
As Janet tried to hold herself together—juggling daily responsibilities, relationships, and expectations—she began to experience alarming physical symptoms.
“I started getting migraines that wouldn’t go away… numbness in most parts of my body… I have to massage my hands and feet just to get up.”
This is a clear example of psychosomatic symptoms—where mental and emotional distress manifests physically. As she rightly notes:
“Whatever your mind suppresses, your body expresses.”
The Pressure to “Make It” for Others
Like many in the diaspora, Janet pushed herself to succeed not just for herself, but for the people she supports back home—family, siblings in school, and even strangers inspired by her journey.
“For the sake of the people that I inspire… please God, let it work.”
But amid the pressure, one powerful inner voice asked her a life-changing question:
“How about for the sake of you?”
From Extrovert to Numbness: The Identity Shift
Janet painfully describes how her bubbly, cheerful self slowly faded into sadness and emotional isolation:
“I watched myself fade away from the bubbly extrovert to a silent introvert. I feel like I don’t know myself anymore.”
This loss of identity is common among those who are emotionally burnt out. And it’s a clear signal that change is needed.
Choosing to Come Home—and Heal
After months of fighting in silence, Janet is choosing to return home—not because she failed, but because healing requires space, rest, and support.
“Going abroad was brave. Coming home is also brave. I need my hometown, some rest, and a therapist.”
Her words are a reminder that choosing yourself is not selfish—it’s survival.
📢 A Call to Action: Check On Your Friends Abroad
Janet ends with a powerful message:
“Please, if you have someone abroad, instead of asking for favors, ask if they are okay.”
So many suffer silently behind “good vibes” on social media. A simple, “How are you really doing?” could make all the difference.
