The Trailing Spouse Roadmap: Navigating and Coping the First 6 Months Abroad

Moving abroad for love is a profound transition that often follows a specific set of emotional milestones, ranging from the initial logistical chaos of month one to the deep identity crisis known as "the crash" in month two. Understanding the building a life abroad timeline is essential for your mental well-being, as it validates that the trailing spouse adjustment period is normal and that the feelings of friction and resentment experienced in the early months are common stages before reaching integration.