Understanding Ulysses Syndrome: Why Living Abroad Causes Chronic Stress

Moving abroad can cause emotional stress called Ulysses Syndrome.

Spanish expert Joseba Achotegui created this term for migrants facing multiple losses.

According to Expat Counselling founder Sidsel Byskov Hansen, this affects many internationals in Denmark.

Statistics Denmark shows that 16.8 percent of the population has an international background in 2026.

In 2025 alone, over 84,000 foreign citizens moved to Denmark.

During the same year, more than 54,000 foreign citizens left.

Achotegui outlines seven major losses that trigger chronic stress during relocation.

The first loss is leaving family and friends behind in your home country.

Language barriers also create stress because simple daily tasks require extra cognitive effort.

Not mastering Danish can limit deep local friendships and career growth.

Unwritten cultural rules around humor and social life create another challenge.

Food and weather also affect mental well-being, especially during long dark winters.

Career changes often force newcomers to rebuild their professional identity and purpose.

Many foreign qualifications are not easily recognised in the Danish labor market.

Internationals may also feel stuck between two worlds without fully belonging to either.

Finally, navigating unfamiliar public systems increases psychological vulnerability during personal crises.

Mental resilience grows when newcomers gradually build connection across multiple communities.

Belonging rarely comes from just one group of friends.

Simple habits like cooking traditional meals can lower homesickness.

Seeking professional counseling can also help manage the emotional strain of moving abroad.

This insight was reported by CPH Post.