Moving abroad can be exciting, but it can also be lonely.

In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek speaks with therapist, coach, and author Lucy Vittrup Christensen about loneliness, why it affects so many internationals in Denmark, and what people can do to build real connection in a new culture.

They explore the difference between being alone and being lonely, why cultural differences in Denmark can make friendships harder to build, and how feelings of isolation can sometimes lead people to withdraw even further.

Lucy also shares practical strategies for reconnecting, from contributing to communities to embracing vulnerability and finding connection through shared activities and nature.

If you’ve ever felt disconnected while living abroad, this conversation offers insight, reassurance, and practical ways to rebuild connection.

Topics include:

Why loneliness affects so many internationals in Denmark
The difference between being alone and feeling lonely
Cultural differences in social connection and friendship
Why people sometimes withdraw when they feel isolated
How vulnerability helps build stronger relationships
Practical ways to find community in Denmark

⚠️ This episode discusses loneliness and mental health. Please take care while listening. If you or someone you know is struggling, consider seeking professional help. Crisis resources are listed below.

Key Mental Health Crisis Resources in Denmark:

Livslinien (Lifeline): Phone 70 201 201 (open 11:00 AM – 5:00 AM daily) for suicide prevention and counseling.
Psykiatrifonden (Mental Health Helpline): Phone 39 25 25 25 (Mon-Thu 10:00-22:00, Fri-Sun 10:00-18:00).
BørneTelefonen: 11 61 11 (24/7 helpline for children and youth).
Startlinjen: 35 36 26 00 (support for, life crises, 16:00-23:00).
Regional Psychiatric Hotline: +45 78 47 04 70 (Central Denmark Region, 24/7)

Lucy Vittrup Christensen (Guest)

https://www.instagram.com/lucy_vittrup

https://www.facebook.com/lucy.vittrup.christensen/

Derek Hartman:

https://www.instagram.com/derekhartmandk

https://youtube.com/c/robetrotting

https://tiktok.com/@derekhartmandk

www.facebook.com/robetrotting

Brooke Black:

https://instagram.com/brookeblackjust

https://www.tiktok.com/@brookeblackjust

🎟️ Come see the show in person!