Why trailing spouses have it tough – stress, depression, loss of identity – and how to turn it into an opportunity!
Expats are prone to what is called TSS or ‘trailing spouse syndrome’. TSS is the result of many challenges trailing spouses face to support their partners who are moving to a new city or country for their jobs. The trailing spouse practically leaves behind almost everything including their jobs, friends and sense of identity.
Nobody wants to hear the term “ball and chain” used to describe their relationship because it sounds burdensome and restrictive for both people. The term “trailing spouse”, unfortunately, gives a similar impression.
The term evokes an image of a person following closely behind their partner, much to the reluctance of the other person. That is quite a disturbing picture.
In truth, a trailing spouse is usually the opposite of that because they play more of a supporting role. When one partner gets relocated overseas for a job, more often than not the other partner is expected to follow them. Even without a job or any sort of prospects to fall into, a trailing spouse is expected to follow to keep the relationship intact. Not going is almost never an option, especially when there are children involved.
With Hong Kong home to many expatriates, a lot of trailing spouses may be experiencing TSS. In this SCMP article, Dr. Zaidi shares with us how to devise a plan before the move, and how to save your relationship from the negative impats of trailing spouse syndrome. Read the full article here.
