Focus on the facts and manage your anxiety

Q

We moved to Spain 10 years ago when we retired. We both like the warm weather and it has been much better for our health. I struggled during UK winters with my chest and my husband had problems with his arthritis. Things have changed since Brexit and we’re really worried about what this will mean for us in the future. We sold up at home as we never planned to go back. I don’t know what we’ll do if we have to return to the UK. I must admit it’s not as comfortable here in Spain now as we get the impression local people think we’ve outstayed our welcome.

Lotte, Spain

A

You’re certainly not alone among almost 300,000 Brits in Spain. Last year, 40% of them were aged 65 and over. No-one knows for sure what will happen when we leave the EU so it’s hard to plan, but both sides have expressed a desire to protect the interests of Brits abroad, and Europeans in the UK, once we leave. In the meantime, it’s important that you find a way to manage your anxiety. Focus on what you know and work out the best ways to manage the present. When you know what lies ahead, you can make a plan to get over any hurdles you may face.