Support Networks

Throughout life, navigating changes requires having a strong network of support and care that can offer assistance in times of vulnerability. This can be even more challenging when we move to another country or express ourselves in a language different from our native language.

The Importance of a Strong Support Network

With a strong support network, the discomforts and challenges that come with change can be more effectively managed. Many of the ruptures we experience throughout life can only transform into strength and resilience when we receive emotional and physical support, whether from institutions or individuals.

Types of Support Networks

Support networks encompass a variety of sources, including:

• Personal relationships like friendships and relatives.


• Peer groups include communities of fellow countrymen living or working in the same city.


• Specific support groups addressing various human vulnerabilities and needs.


• Healthcare professionals, migration institutions, and access to basic needs like housing, food, work, and human rights.

Building and Strengthening Support Networks in a New Country

When relocating to a new country, it's crucial to research and strengthen mutual aid and care relationships. While some regions offer ample support, others may require external assistance. Moving to a new country alone or with family can be daunting, as discussed in our previous post, and having a support network during this transition can be immensely beneficial.

It's important to note that while a support network may not automatically adapt to your new needs, it's within this network that our evolving needs can find support. It also provides insights into how that culture addresses specific vulnerabilities. Understanding and addressing these vulnerabilities involves recognizing which aspects of that culture are inclusive and which are not.

The Role of Language in Support Networks

In the latter case, having a support network that speaks our native language can be crucial in developing resources to cope with the challenges we might face.

Creating and Expanding Support Networks

Building our support network can involve nurturing relationships from our home country and establishing new ones in the new country. These networks can be both virtual, such as support found on social media, and physical, through local institutions in the cities we move to.

The reality is that not all places offer good support to newcomers, or they may have limited resources to meet the demand for support. In such cases, assistance needs to be expanded and shared, complementing both virtual and physical means in a collective and constructive movement over time.

Next, we explore six simple steps for creating reliable support systems in Part 3.

- Part 1 - Important support networks for smooth transitions to a new country

- Part 2 - Build and maintain helpful community connections abroad < - You are here

- Part 3 - Six simple steps for creating reliable support systems