The Kafala System: Stories of Struggle, Migration, and Hope Insights from Psychologist and Relationship Advisor Goutham

As a Telangana-based psychologist and relationship advisor, living in the northern part of the state, in Jagtial, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by our people. Especially for the Telugu people from rural backgrounds, economic struggles, unemployment, and social unrest push them to migrate to cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, or even Gulf countries in search of a livelihood.

“Watch this short insight into the challenges faced by migrant workers from Telangana.”

The Human Cost: Mental Health and Family Strain

Migration under such circumstances has profound effects on mental health. Families are separated for months or years, causing loneliness, anxiety, and stress. Many migrants struggle with trust issues, fearing infidelity or family neglect back home. I have observed cases where families fall apart due to separation, adultery, or disputes arising from long-term absence.

As a psychologist and relationship advisor, I have helped many migrant workers and their families restore their emotional equilibrium and become fully functioning individuals. Through both online counseling and in-person sessions, I have ensured that marriages survive the test of time, even for those on the brink of divorce or involved in legal battles. These experiences allow me to truly understand what migrants endure in the hope of earning a decent livelihood, and the immense emotional and psychological toll it takes on them and their families.

Such experiences highlight the need for family counseling, marital dispute resolution, and mental health support. Migrants’ struggles are not just financial; they are deeply psychological, and online counseling provides an accessible way to address these challenges, even from remote parts of Telangana.

Systemic Challenges and the Need for Local Opportunities

The lack of rural employment and limited entrepreneurship options in Telangana forces many young people to seek work abroad. Governments must actively encourage agro-based industries, rural investment, and local entrepreneurship, ensuring youth have opportunities within their communities. Families should not have to endure solitude, separation, and financial exploitation just to survive.

Kafala System: Modern-Day Bonded Labor

The Kafala system, prevalent in many Gulf countries, controls every aspect of a migrant’s life — where they live, what they eat, whether they can travel, or even see their families. I consider it bonded slavery, and it is morally unfathomable to allow such control over human beings. The system exposes migrants to unsafe conditions, abuse, and severe mental health consequences.

A Ray of Hope: Reform and Awareness

I am encouraged by the recent reforms in Saudi Arabia under Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to abolish Kafala restrictions. The rise of the internet and social media has empowered people to voice concerns about injustice, making exploitation visible globally. As a psychologist and relationship advisor, I am optimistic that these changes will benefit Telugu people and migrant workers from Telangana, providing them safer, dignified opportunities.

The Role of Mental Health Support

Migration and economic struggle bring stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma. Families separated by work often face loneliness, misunderstandings, or marital challenges. As a psychologist and relationship advisor, I support individuals and families in Telangana to navigate these experiences. If you or your loved ones are facing similar challenges, you can visit psychologistgoutham.com to learn more, seek guidance, or book an appointment. Even a small step towards support can make a meaningful difference.

In Conclusion

The Kafala system exposes vulnerabilities of hardworking migrant workers, but with systemic reforms, awareness, and support for mental health, we can reduce their suffering. For Telugu people in Telangana, Jagtial, and Hyderabad, understanding these challenges and seeking help through online counseling can improve emotional well-being, strengthen families, and empower them to make informed life choices.