The American Dream, a concept introduced by James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book 'The Epic of America,' promised a life better, richer, and fuller for everyone, with opportunities based on ability and achievement rather than social class or birth. However, since the second Trump administration began, Indian-Americans have faced increasing online criticism and physical attacks, forcing many to keep a low profile to maintain their jobs.
A recent Reddit post by a 36-year-old man has highlighted the harsh realities faced by migrants in the United States. The man, who has lived in the US for eight years, is considering resigning from his job and returning to India due to overwhelming stress and depression. He described his experience as a shattered American dream.
The techie, with seven years of experience in the country, said he is dealing with health issues while working in a toxic environment. 'While things were going well initially, everything changed since last year. Toxic management, extreme stress and pressure due to AI push, office politics, etc.,' he wrote in his Reddit post. He admitted to never having a proper structure in life and confessed he could no longer manage the stress alone.
'Through schooling, bachelor's, India work experience, and then here in the US, at this point, I just don't have the strength to be alone anymore while constantly fighting the stress at work,' he wrote. He revealed that he goes to movie theatres every weekend just to be around people and has been taking high blood pressure medications and antidepressants since 2025. 'Every morning when starting the day I feel like I'll end up having a stroke. I've also started disliking tech with each day now,' he added.
He asked the internet for advice on planning his future, stating he is willing to take a low-paying job in India for better work-life balance. 'I'm happy to take up any low-paying job too in India, with a better work-life balance. I am feeling completely lost, helpless and nowhere to go. Please share your thoughts and opinions,' he pleaded.
The post went viral, and many social media users advised him to return home and prioritize his mental health. One user commented, 'Returning is not a bad idea at all. Since you mentioned you are taking high BP medications, just curious do you do any exercise? I personally have benefitted a lot from exercising- it helped me feel better. Also please try to find a job with better work life balance. If you are willing to accept lower pay, that is usually not too difficult.' Another added, 'Whether you return to India or not, do consider taking job with less stress, even with low pay. You have worked enough, it is time for you to take it easy and focus on yourself, you need a job that can support that. Parents also need support, and in supporting them you can rediscover your childhood. Our parents have not much time to spend with us.'
Since 2025, the Trump administration has increased the H-1B visa fee to $100,000 and promoted anti-Indian sentiment, leading to online and in-person targeting of immigrants. Additionally, President Trump recently called India a 'hell-hole' while discussing countries that send citizens to the US.
