10 October 2024
Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity. You get to experience new cultures, meet people from all over the world, and gain an education that opens doors for your future. But as exciting as it is, there’s often one challenge that comes with living in a foreign country—culture shock.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed when transitioning to a new setting, so don’t worry!
We will walk you through how to recognize and manage culture shock so you can enjoy your time abroad to the fullest.
What Is Culture Shock?
Before diving into how to deal with culture shock, it’s important to understand what it is. Culture shock happens when you are in a new country with different customs, traditions, language, and social norms. Everything feels unfamiliar—sometimes exciting, sometimes confusing.
You might feel homesick, frustrated, or anxious as you try to adjust. Culture shock isn’t a one-time thing; it often comes in stages.
Stages of Culture Shock:
- Honeymoon Phase: Everything feels exciting and new. You’re in awe of the differences, and the challenges haven’t hit yet.
- Frustration Phase: Things start feeling difficult. Language barriers, strange customs, or different foods might get frustrating.
- Adjustment Phase: Slowly, you begin to adapt. The unfamiliar becomes more comfortable, and you start to figure things out.
- Acceptance Phase: You feel at home in the new culture. You understand how things work and embrace the differences.
The good news is that culture shock is temporary, and once you hit the adjustment and acceptance phases, things become much easier. But how do you deal with the tough stages? Let’s break it down.
1. Prepare Yourself Before You Go
The first step to handling culture shock happens before leaving your home country. Preparing mentally and emotionally for the differences you’ll encounter can make the transition smoother.
Research your host country:
Get to know about local customs, social norms, and language basics. Watch videos, read blogs, and join online forums where people share their study abroad experiences. Knowing what to expect helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Learn a few phrases:
Even if you’re not fluent, learning some common phrases in the local language can go a long way. “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “Where is…?” are good basics. Locals appreciate the effort, and it helps you feel more connected.
(Also Read: How to Move Abroad from India)
2. Embrace the Differences
One of the best things about studying abroad is being exposed to a different way of life. But sometimes, these differences can be overwhelming.
Instead of resisting, embrace the new culture. Try the local food, even if it’s not something you’re used to. Participate in traditional events or festivals. The more you engage with the culture, the more comfortable you’ll become.
It is okay to feel out of place at first, but the key is to stay open-minded. For example, when some of our clients went abroad, they were shocked by how late people ate dinner. It took some getting used to, but eventually, they adjusted, and it became a part of their routine.
3. Find Comfort in the Familiar
While embracing new things is important, it’s also okay to seek out familiar comforts when you need them. Culture shock can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it’s perfectly fine to take a break.
Create a routine:
Establishing a daily routine can help you feel more grounded. Whether it’s having coffee in the same spot every morning or taking a walk in the park, these familiar habits create a sense of stability.
Stay connected:
Keep in touch with friends and family back home. A quick video call can give you a boost of comfort when you’re feeling homesick. Plus, sharing your experiences with them helps bridge the gap between the two worlds.
4. Build a Support System
You’re not alone in this! Many other international students are likely going through the same things as you. Building a support network of friends, both local and international, can help you navigate culture shock more smoothly.
Join clubs or student groups:
Most universities have student organizations where you can meet people with similar interests. Joining these groups can help you find a community and feel less isolated.
Talk about your feelings:
Don’t bottle up your emotions. Tell your friends, a counsellor, or a mentor what you’re going through. Sometimes simply sharing your feelings can make a significant difference. You might find that others have tips for how they deal with culture shock, too.
5. Be Patient with Yourself
Adjusting to a new culture takes time. Don’t expect to feel comfortable overnight. It’s okay to have bad days when you miss home or feel frustrated by the differences. The key is to be patient with yourself.
Take it one step at a time: You don’t have to figure everything out immediately.
Allow yourself time to gradually adjust to the new atmosphere. Celebrate the small victories—like figuring out public transportation or making your first local friend.
6. Practice Self-Care
Culture shock may be emotionally draining, so it’s vital to look after your mental and physical health while abroad.
Exercise:
Staying active can improve your mood and lessen stress. Even if it’s just a short walk or stretching, physical activity can be a great way to clear your mind.
Mindfulness and relaxation:
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, practice mindfulness or meditation to keep calm and grounded. Even if you’re new to meditation, there are lots of apps that can assist you through brief sessions.
Rest and nutrition:
Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and eating well. When you’re tired or hungry, everything feels harder to deal with. Take care of your basic needs so you can face the challenges of culture shock with a clear mind.
7. Focus on the Positives
Instead of dwelling on the things that frustrate you, focus on the positive aspects of your experience. Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You’re gaining unique experiences that will help you grow personally and professionally.
Make a list of what you love:
Whenever you’re feeling down, make a list of all the things you enjoy about your host country. Maybe it’s the food, the friendly people, or the beautiful landscapes. Reminding yourself of the positives can help shift your mindset.
Keep a journal:
Writing about your experiences allows you to reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’re developing. Plus, it’s a great way to look back on how far you’ve come once you’ve settled into the new culture.
8. Know That It Gets Better
The most important thing to remember is that cultural shock is just temporary. It may feel difficult at first, but with time, you will adjust and become more comfortable in your new surroundings. Every problem you confront is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Conclusion
Dealing with culture shock while studying abroad isn’t easy, but it’s a normal part of the process.
By preparing yourself, embracing the differences, and finding a balance between the new and the familiar, you’ll navigate the ups and downs more smoothly.
Remember to be patient with yourself, build a support system, and practice self-care. Eventually, you’ll find yourself feeling at home in your new country, and the experiences you gain will be worth every moment of discomfort.
If you need any kind of assistance while studying abroad, reach out to our “post landing services” experts.
