Brasilia - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
No, it's sunny and 75 degrees all year round. - May 2017
Nope, not that I know of. The weather here is gorgeous! - May 2017
Hmmmmm.....from what I have heard, it is a typical post. Lots of frustration with delays from contractors, fac, housing, etc. Again this is my first post, but I have really appreciated the openness from the EFM group. If you say you are feeling down, someone will invite you over, or for lunch. We have all gone through this.
I think the hardest part is the isolation if you don't speak Portuguese. VERY VERY VERY few people in Brasilia speak English. So it can feel frustrating when simple tasks take a long time. It can be emotionally tiresome. But, the Brazilians are friendly, and patient. They will try to help you find the correct words and get you what you need.
I would encourage people new to post to join groups quickly so you start to meet people. Don't let the embassy be your only source of interaction. There are sewing classes, painting classes, book clubs, running clubs, etc. Join and start building a network. There are also lots of local clubs along the lake, that some have found to be a great way to meet Brazilians. - Mar 2017
