Culture shock is a complex phenomenon that can manifest in many different ways. It is more than just feeling homesick or jetlagged; it can also lead to severe symptoms such as nausea, frustration, fatigue, and confusion. It is important to note that culture shock can happen to anyone, not just international students.
But as an international student, you may be more susceptible to it because you are leaving your familiar environment and adapting to a new one. This is why it's important to have the right advice on how to deal with it. Here are our top 5 tips for dealing with culture shock:
It’s only temporary
Settling into a new country can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. It can be a lot to take in, from navigating the transportation system to understanding cultural norms and customs.
Feeling anxious or stressed is natural as you try to adjust to your new surroundings. Additionally, the language barrier can add to the stress of being in a new country. It's important to understand that adapting to a new environment will take time, and it's normal to feel homesick.
Making friends can also be challenging in a new country, particularly if you don't speak the language fluently. But as you become more confident in your language ability and build connections, you'll start feeling more at home.
Other daily tasks like shopping and cooking can also be challenging in a new country. Things may be more challenging to find or familiar than they were back home. But as you learn your way around, you'll be able to find the things you need and start to feel more comfortable in your new environment.
It's important to remember that despite these challenges, the experience of living in a new culture can be incredibly rewarding. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new way of life and gain a unique perspective on the world. As you learn to appreciate the differences, you'll realise that the cultural experience was one of the reasons you wanted to travel in the first place.
Things will be different. But that doesn’t mean they are wrong.
When you first arrive in a new country, it can be a shock to discover just how different the culture is. You may be surprised to find that people wear different types of clothing, have different customs and traditions, and even speak a different languages.
One of the most striking differences you may encounter is how people behave and interact with each other. For example, people may wear more casual clothes, behave differently with the opposite sex, be very strict about punctuality, or drink and smoke in public. These differences can be difficult to understand and accept, but it's important to remember that these are all normal aspects of the culture you are now a part of.
It's easy to feel overwhelmed and confused by these differences. Still, it's important to remember that these cultural variations are only sometimes better or worse than what you are used to. Instead of being overly critical or judgmental, it's important to understand and accept these cultural differences.
One way to do this is by asking questions and determining what is considered "normal" in this new culture. This will help you to gain a better understanding of the culture and the people who live there.
It's also important to remember that you can only conform to some aspects of the culture to fit in. You can still maintain your values and beliefs while respecting and understanding the culture you are now a part of. It's a delicate balance, but by staying open-minded and curious, you'll be able to navigate the cultural differences and make the most of your time in a new country.
It's important to remember that culture shock is a normal experience when moving to a new place, and it will take time to adjust. But by being patient, open-minded and curious, you will be able to overcome the culture shock and fully enjoy and embrace the new culture you are now a part of.
You are suddenly on your own
Before you leave for your new home, it's important to learn some basic life skills that will help you to take care of yourself. This includes learning how to cook a few of your favourite meals, as it will give you a sense of familiarity and comfort. Knowing how to prepare your food can also save money and allow you to eat healthier.
Another important skill to learn is how to do your laundry. This will be especially helpful if you're living in a shared space, as you'll need to be able to do your laundry without relying on others. Additionally, learning how to do regular chores such as cleaning will help maintain a clean and comfortable living space.
When you're living with people you don't know, such as in a family homestay or with other students, it's important to think about how you can consider their needs. This means being mindful of noise levels, keeping common areas clean, and respecting their personal space.
It's also important to think about communicating effectively with them, especially if they don't speak your language. You can use gestures, pictures, or a translator app to help you convey your message.
By being prepared and learning these important skills before you leave, you will be better equipped to handle the challenges of living away from home and make the most of your experience.
Culture shock is a series of phases.
When experiencing culture shock, it's helpful to recognise the phase you are in. Keep in mind that it's a process, and it will take time to adjust. The different phases include:
- Honeymoon phase: When you first arrive, everything is exciting and new, including the cultural differences.
- Crisis phase: As time passes, you may find that cultural differences become harder to deal with. You may not like the food, struggle with the accent, or need help finding your way around. These challenges may make it difficult to focus on your studies, and you may start to feel homesick.
- Adjustment phase: As you become more comfortable with the language and your daily routine, things get easier. You make new friends, get involved in community activities, and learn how to deal with problems.
- Bi-cultural phase: Eventually, you will feel comfortable living in two cultures simultaneously. You will feel like you belong and can navigate both cultures with ease.
It's important to remember that every person's journey through culture shock is different, and it's a natural process that takes time. But by being patient and understanding the different phases, you will be better equipped to deal with the challenges and make the most of your experience.
It’s up to you
How you choose to handle culture shock is entirely up to you, and there are steps you can take to make the transition easier. Overcoming culture shock is important if you want to benefit from your international studies and experience fully. It also allows you to improve your confidence and acquire the skills you need to work and travel worldwide.
