However, for many today, that dream appears increasingly out of reach.
In recent years, particularly amid shifting political and social dynamics in the United States, Indian-Americans have reported rising challenges—from online hostility to instances of discrimination and workplace stress. These pressures have begun to reshape how migrants perceive life abroad.
A recent account shared by a 36-year-old Indian tech professional has brought renewed attention to this issue. Having spent nearly eight years in the U.S., the individual revealed he is now contemplating returning to India due to mounting stress, declining mental health, and an increasingly toxic work environment.
In his post, the techie described how his early years in the U.S. were promising, but circumstances deteriorated significantly over the past year. He cited factors such as toxic management, intense workplace pressure driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, and office politics. With over seven years of experience—five of those in the U.S.—he admitted that the strain has become overwhelming.
He also reflected on a deeper personal struggle: a lack of structure and support in his life. After years of navigating education, work in India, and professional life abroad, he said he no longer has the strength to handle stress alone.
The impact on his health has been severe. He shared that he has been taking medication for high blood pressure and antidepressants since 2025. Mornings, he said, are filled with anxiety, often fearing a potential health crisis like a stroke. In an effort to cope with loneliness, he has developed a routine of visiting movie theatres every weekend simply to be around people.
What once felt like a fulfilling career has now become a source of distress. He admitted that his passion for technology is fading, replaced by exhaustion and disillusionment.
Seeking guidance, he asked others for advice on his next steps. Notably, he expressed a willingness to return to India and accept a lower-paying job if it meant achieving a healthier work-life balance. His message conveyed a sense of being lost and overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn.
The response from the online community was largely supportive. Many encouraged him to prioritize his mental and physical well-being, even if it meant stepping away from high-paying roles. Some suggested incorporating exercise and lifestyle changes, while others emphasized the importance of reconnecting with family and finding emotional support.
Several commenters also highlighted that choosing a less stressful job is not a failure, but rather a necessary step toward recovery and stability. Returning to India, they noted, could provide not just professional relief but also a chance to rebuild personal connections.
The broader context adds another layer to this narrative. Policy changes, including increased visa costs and stricter immigration frameworks, have made it more challenging for foreign professionals to sustain long-term careers in the U.S. Additionally, reports of rising anti-immigrant sentiment have contributed to feelings of insecurity among migrant communities.
Together, these factors are prompting many to reassess the realities of the American Dream.
For this tech professional—and many others like him—the dream has not entirely vanished, but it has undeniably changed shape. What once symbolized ambition and success is now being weighed against mental health, personal fulfillment, and the simple need for a balanced life.
