All you need to know about culture shock.
Picture source: Investopodia
Relocating to a new country through work or study route is a very exciting experience and you should not be afraid of bumping into the different kinds of culture shock along the way because it has happened to the best of us all.
Let’s talk of what culture shock is, its level and tips to properly deal with it.
What is culture shock?
Culture shock is the experience that comes from being in an unfamiliar environment or the personal disorientation a person feels when experiencing an unfamiliar way of life due to immigration or a visit to a new country as a result of the difficulty in adjustments to new customs, behaviors, and norms.
Stages of Culture Shock.
There are 4 stages involved in these process and it’s important to make good use of these stages.
The Honeymoon Phase: It is filled with overwhelmingly positive feelings that can last for a week or few months because you are still in awe of the differences, the beauty, learning about the new people, foods, cultures, and experiences.
This is when you should make the most of your time! Go out, explore, and really spend your time enjoying the experience because it makes it easier to ease into the other stages of culture shock.
The Frustration Phase: As reality sets in, you begin to feel the differences starting from being unable to speak or read the language on signs or menus, different social norms and the unfamiliar daily routines.
Feelings of irritability, anxiety, frustration, and hostility begins to set in and you begin to miss the things back home that were easy and familiar from friends and family.
80% of person begins to experience physical symptoms of culture shock, like excessive sleeping and isolation, as well as dissatisfaction with your new culture.
The Adjustment Phase: At this stage, you start to relax, you begin to calm down and develop a more balanced view of the new culture, accept the different ways things are done and the coping mechanisms that will help you feel more relaxed and confident.
This phase requires patience and an open mind.
The Acceptance Phase: This is the stage at which you find acceptance to your new surrounding as you begin to feel you belong, understand and appreciate the culture that you’re now a part of.
Many people feel more at ease and connected at this point.
Tips for Dealing with Culture Shock.
Few practical tips to help you manage culture shock effectively.
It is important to do some research before arriving in a new culture by learning about local customs, traditions, and etiquette as understanding the basics can go a long way in making you feel more prepared.
- Always stay open-minded because what seem strange at first could become a cherished part of your experience.
- Dedicate time to learning the local language, starting from basic phrases can help you navigate everyday situations more smoothly.
- Engaging with locals as much as you can will help you feel led isolated and you could also join community events, clubs, or classes.
- Surround yourself with items you are used to from home as it can provide a sense of security in an otherwise unfamiliar environment.
- Seek professional help if it becomes overwhelming.
- Maintaining a daily routine can provide structure and stability as it’s comforting to have certain constants in your life while adapting to a new culture.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for support by talking to expats (people who you are of the same culture) have been through similar experiences.
Culture shock is a journey that takes time, patience, and a positive outlook and don’t forget that It’s completely normal to feel out of sorts when immersing yourself in a new culture.