When The Guilt Feels Too Heavy To Carry

We often hear about the opportunities and experiences that children of immigrants or immigrants have access to. But we often don't hear about the invisible guilt they carry with them.

The guilt of feeling like you left your family behind, feeling like you need to compensate by sending financial support or material items. The guilt that you may have experiences that your parents or elder relatives have not had such as traveling or trips. The guilt of choosing whether to choose your mother culture or assimilate--losing your mother tongue, not cooking enough cultural foods. The heaviness of knowing your ancestors and parents have made sacrifices for you, and now you must do the same. 

What do you do when that guilt feels too heavy to carry? I want to normalize this experience firstly. As an immigrant or child of immigrant, this experience and guilt is all too real. It very likely may be an experience that becomes so normal, that you feel may not be able to be shaken off. But this can change, you can relieve this guilt. You can learn how to value both cultures and know it's not your fault.

As a South Asian child of immigrant, I have firsthand experience but specialized abilities to help you heal. Having a therapist who looks like you and has been through similar experiences you have can be instrumental in healing. I am accepting clients in NJ and SC and I look forward to helping individuals from different generations heal. Whether you are an immigrant, or a child of immigrant, I am here for you. To schedule a free consultation or find out more information about how you can heal this guilt, please feel free to reach out when you are ready.