I first encountered the term “expat syndrome” in 2014, although I couldn’t find any formal recognition of it in psychological literature. The phrase appears to have been popularised by expatriate writers, and its origin is often credited to Tony Crossley, an expat living in Thailand. He described the idea succinctly:
Expat Syndrome is a condition whereby many expatriates see mostly either the best of their own nationality & the worst of the locals, or see the opposite.
Crossley went on to explain that tolerance of cultural differences is central to expat life. Some adapt well, while others become perpetually critical, expecting local authorities and residents to revolve around their needs. In his words, these people try to build themselves up by tearing others down.
What Specifically is the Expat Syndrome?
Reflecting on my years as an expat in Turkey, I have to admit that I’ve slipped into that mindset on more than one occasion. The term may not be clinically defined, but it maps onto established psychological concepts—most notably, the idea of locus of control.
Kate Ashley Norman of the Thrive in Turkey Centre, who is familiar with the notion of expat syndrome, suggests psychologists would likely describe the pattern as an internal versus external locus of control: do you let circumstances dictate your outlook, or do you take charge of your response?
She explains that many people move overseas to “live the dream,” and the early years can feel like a steady high—freedom, fewer demands, and a sense of adventure. Over time, however, the realities of seasonal weather, changing bureaucracy, financial shifts, homesickness, declining health, and concerns about scams can bring anxiety and even depression.
There is a distinct difference between those who succumb to the expat syndrome, and those who happily avoid it. Those who succumb demonstrate an external locus of control – a feeling of powerlessness over events that have contributed to their feelings of unhappiness. Those who avoid the expat Syndrome trap are those who have a deep sense of control over their lives. Despite experiencing similar challenges to those affected by the syndrome, they have a greater sense of resilience and empowerment to deal with the difficulties and focus on the positives.
Expat Life in Turkey
Expat Life in TurkeyIn practical terms, the syndrome can cause expats to romanticize their adopted country as either flawless or deeply flawed. Thinking of Turkey—or any host country—as a flawless utopia is risky, especially in turbulent times.
In recent years expats in Turkey have seen incomes shrink, living costs rise, and property values fluctuate. Alongside these economic pressures, the country has faced regional instability, refugee crises, security threats, restrictions on media, and incidents of political violence. These realities weigh on both locals and foreigners and can intensify feelings of uncertainty and disappointment.
As Turkey approached elections, many residents and expats watched events closely, aware that political outcomes could shape daily life and the country’s future direction. For those living abroad, such moments highlight how quickly circumstances can change and how important a realistic, adaptable mindset is.
When a friend recently asked whether it was time to leave, my immediate response was cautious: I wouldn’t advise a hasty exit. Instead, I suggested a more immediate, practical step—cultivating gratitude for the small, steady things in life. Acknowledging what works and what is meaningful, while accepting the inevitable frustrations, helps maintain perspective and resilience.
Expat life can be immensely rewarding, but it also challenges us to balance expectation with reality. Avoiding the trap of expat syndrome means recognising the limits of control, focusing on what you can influence, and learning to appreciate everyday moments even when bigger problems persist.