Dehradun (Staff Correspondent): A 31-year-old man who returned to India after spending six years in Canada shared his experience on social media, which connected the sentiments of thousands of Indian immigrants and returnees. In a detailed post on Reddit, the man explained how he is feeling “stuck between two worlds” after returning to India – one that is familiar but now seems depressing, and the other that was once lonely but convenient and structured. The youth is originally from Delhi and is now living with his parents in Dehradun. After years of studying and working in Canada, he returned to India in 2024 due to some personal reasons. Although he spoke positively about being near his family and enjoying Indian food, he is struggling mentally with other aspects. He wrote, “The quality of life in India and the daily chaos is exhausting for me. My friends are either abroad or have relocated. I am unable to find a solid or well-paying job that matches my qualifications.”
“Lack of civic sense and chaos is exhausting”
In the Reddit post, the youth wrote that the lack of civic sense, daily inconveniences, weather and lifestyle in India have become unbearable for him. “Sometimes it feels like I am in the country I know, but now it is pulling me back.” He said that compared to the opportunities, structure and personal freedom he had in Canada, India’s social and professional environment is confusing and discouraging.
Internet community showers sympathy and suggestions
Thousands of people responded to the youth’s post, many of whom shared their own experiences. One user wrote, “I have returned from the US after 15 years. It took a year and a half to adjust here again. Give yourself time.”Another user said, “You can adjust here the same way you did in Canada. You were probably thrilled there, here you are comparing.”
Some useful tips that were given:
– Join a gym or yoga class: Important for mental and physical health.
– Join the local community: Take up clubs, courses or volunteer activities.
– Find freelance or remote work: You can work with international clients in India too.
– Take up mindfulness or counselling: It can help you adjust to the changing environment.
– Remember the reason for returning: Whenever you feel disappointed, remember the core feeling of your decision – family, belonging or something else.
Adjusting to India after returning from abroad can be challenging for many, especially if the person has lived a structured and independent life there. While the experience can be emotionally draining, change is possible with time, patience and steps in the right direction. This viral post has once again highlighted the issue of how “reverse culture shock” is real and that returnees need as much understanding, support and guidance as they get when going abroad.
