The Emotional Side of Repatriation
Over the past decade, Armenian repatriation has been on the rise. Between 2018 and 2021, approximately 40,000 ethnic Armenians from other countries were granted Armenian citizenship, with over 25,000 applications in 2022 alone—the highest number since 1991. While current and exact figures are not yet readily available, the growing trend of individuals returning to their ancestral homeland and deciding to live and work in Armenia is undeniable. With this comes an increasing need to explore the sometimes complex emotional side of integration in Armenia.
As exhilarating as the journey can be, it is also often dotted with pockets of emotional contradictions. For example, you’re happy to reconnect with your roots or discover more about Armenian culture, but socializing in a setting sprinkled with language barriers or cultural differences can sometimes bring up feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and, of course, homesickness.
The transition period varies from person to person, but many repatriates experience both emotional highs and lows. The initial excitement of a new adventure may be followed by moments of uncertainty—especially when dealing with challenges like bureaucracy or adjusting to new social norms. Recognizing and addressing these emotional shifts is key to a smoother integration experience.
Psychological and Emotional Roots of Homesickness
Homesickness is a strong emotional reaction to a lack of familiar surroundings, routines, and/or relationships. Psychologically, it grows from our natural and social desires for stability and belonging. When these markers are forced to recalibrate in a new environment, emotions like longing, sadness, and even anxiety can rear their inconvenient heads.
For repatriates in Armenia, homesickness can arise from encountering cultural differences, a mismatch in expectations coming into the transition, language barriers, or having too much downtime early in your journey. It’s important to be aware that feelings of sadness or loneliness can sometimes surface after the initial phase of moving to Armenia when the excitement of moving wears off and the dust settles.
The warmth of Armenian hospitality can be very reassuring (and delicious; we all know carbs = happiness) and that may also help prolong some inevitable emotional roller-coasters. However, the inevitable reality of navigating bureaucratic processes, social expectations, or even small but new daily habits can become overwhelming. Recognizing personal triggers helps in managing these feelings and creating a sense of home while staying connected to where you came from.
The Emotional Impact on Families
If you’ve made the transition with your family, it’s important to consider that the move to Armenia can affect each member differently. While one person might feel immediately at home, others may struggle with the adjustment.
Parents may take on different roles than before, especially if one partner adapts to the cultural and their respective professional environment more quickly. Not being in sync on this pace is also normal and you should be kind to yourself and your partner—differences in language aptitude, comfort level, and line of work can all play a role in how you feel. Children might also find the transition challenging due to changes in schooling, language, and friend groups.
The key to navigating misunderstandings and conflicts due to different levels of enthusiasm about integration in Armenia is open and honest communication —acknowledging everyone’s individual experience and needs will help create a sense of belonging for everyone.
Seeking Out Support and Community
No matter how well-prepared you are for the move, the emotional weight of repatriation is much lighter when you have a strong support system. Joining diasporan networks, local organizations, or expat groups can make a world of difference when navigating how to adapt to life in Armenia.
There are many formal and informal support systems available for repatriates. Organizations like Repat Armenia help connect newcomers with others who have gone through similar experiences. Social clubs, professional networks, and even online forums can be invaluable in providing guidance and fostering friendships. Many repatriates find comfort in meeting others who understand the mix of emotions that come with the transition.
Personal stories from other repatriates can also be incredibly reassuring. Hearing about someone else’s journey—their struggles, their breakthroughs, and the ways they made Armenia feel like home—can offer valuable perspective and a reminder that adjustment takes time.
Strategies to Cope with Homesickness
If you find yourself struggling with homesickness, consider these strategies:
-Create routines that bring comfort. Whether it’s making coffee the way you did back home, scheduling weekly calls with loved ones, or finding a favorite spot in your new city, small rituals can provide a sense of comfort and stability.
-Stay engaged. Boredom or lack of purpose can amplify feelings of homesickness. Push your inner introvert’s boundaries, get involved in community events, take Armenian language classes, or explore new hobbies.
-Allow yourself to miss home, but don’t let it consume you. It’s okay to feel homesick, but try to focus on the aspects of your new life that excite and fulfill you.
-Build connections. Make an effort to develop relationships with both locals and fellow repatriates. Strong social ties can help you feel more grounded in your new environment.
-Be patient with yourself. Adjusting to a new country takes time, and it’s okay if you don’t feel settled right away. Give yourself grace as you navigate this significant life change.
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