A Data Science graduate from a US university recently took to social media to share how his mental health has taken a hit after getting laid off on H-1B months ago.
He shared that he was fired just one month after starting his H1B job in late 2024. Since then, it’s been a long, painful 9-month stretch of job hunting, visa extensions, and survival.
With his first B2 change of status (COS) already expired and the second one still pending, he’s hit a wall, emotionally and financially.
What’s worse is that he spent his initial earnings paying off student loans and rent. Hence, the B2 visa holder has no savings, no job, and no clarity on what comes next.
“Mentally, I feel completely drained and hopeless. I came here with big dreams and worked hard, but things just aren’t falling into place. I don’t know what to do next — whether to return home, keep trying, or switch fields entirely. It feels like I failed despite giving it my all,” the former H-1B confessed on his heartbreaking post.
Several international professionals admitted they’re facing the same brutal silence from employers.
Many advised him to stop burning out in the US and instead return home temporarily, and come back stronger when the market recovers. Others pointed toward Canada or Europe as better bets for skilled immigrants right now, but there’s no guarantee in the current climate.
