In this insightful episode of Nomadic Diaries, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Megan Norton-Newbanks delve into the mental health challenges and evolution of belonging on the expat journey with special guest Patrick Kadian, The Expat Hypnotherapis. Drawing from decades of global living, as well as expertise in multiple mental health modalities, Patrick Kadian explores how moving across continents continuously reshapes our understanding of identity, belonging, and well-being.

Key Topics Covered

• Patrick’s Personal Journey:
  Patrick Kadian shares how his sense of belonging shifted from comfort in being “apart” to craving deeper connection, particularly after starting a family. He describes the “unrecognized baggage” expats bring with them and how this affects both themselves and their loved ones.
• Expat Identity & Family Dynamics:
  The episode examines the unique struggles of the primary parent or “trailing spouse” in expat life and the ripple effects on children’s emotional well-being. Patrick Kadian stresses the importance of creating a sense of purpose and community, both for parents and their children.
• Mental Health Strategies:
  Patrick Kadian unpacks how different modalities especially hypnotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and stress management - can support expats through periods of transition. He demystifies hypnotherapy, explaining how it works and how it relates to fundamental needs like sleep, nutrition, and emotional self-regulation.
• Trust and Self-Belonging:
  Trust—both in oneself and between therapist and client - is highlighted as central to healing and building belonging. Patrick Kadian offers practical advice on cultivating self-efficacy and inward belonging, suggesting daily practices to help navigate expat life’s ups and downs.
• The Power of Connection:
  The hosts and guest discuss the meaningfulness of the inner journey: how nourishing self-understanding and acceptance enables authentic connection with others, regardless of location.

Memorable Quotes

• “That sense of belonging apart was really very good for me for a very long time. But as I grew older… I wasn’t feeding this important part of me that needed to feel a closer sense of intimacy and belonging.” – Patrick Kadian
• “The more that we’re able to give parents a sense of belonging…that will have this kind of knock-on effect to be able to help build a greater sense of belonging for the children at home and even at school.” – Patrick Kadian
• “You can belong anywhere because you belong to yourself.” – Megan Norton-Newbanks

Resources Mentioned

• Hypnotherapy and mindfulness practices
• Parenting resources for expat families

Find Patrick at:  

www.theexpathypnotherapist.com

[email protected]

Thanks for tuning in to The Belonging Project series! Don’t miss the next episode for more genuine conversations about navigating global life and forging authentic belonging.

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