Culture shock is very common; it is the feeling we have while moving into an unknown place. All of us who have studied or lived abroad for whatever reason had to adjust to a new environment, a new culture. Logically, Western cultures seem more familiar to some of us than Eastern ones. Anyway, Culture shock is the feeling that comes with the adjustment to a new place. Some feel anxiety, others depression, others disorientation, all features  that come as a result of moving to a new place

Culture Shock

People and professionals use this definition to describe a group of feelings a person experiences when leaving a familiar culture to be part of a different one. These feelings are confusion, stress, and disorientation, among others.

Leaving the culture of our own means confronting many challenges. Some of the values, social norms, and traditions in the new country or city might be very different from beliefs about «how things should be» in the place where you grew up.

People carry a certain background and personal experiences. This sort of “emotional suitcase” they take with them will shape the way they’ll perceive the new environment and eventually, how they’ll get adjusted.

During the process of adaptation, people will have to deal with the emotional effects of leaving “home” and everything related to it: Family, friends, food, social norms, beliefs, values, music, etc. At the same time, they will feel the pressure to “fit in” and adapt to the new culture.

Symptoms of Culture Shock

• Extreme homesickness.
• Difficulty in accomplishing daily activities.
• Social anxiety which leads to avoiding people.
• Physical pain and sleep difficulties.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Significant nervousness or exhaustion for no apparent reason.

Causes of Culture Shock

• People tend to use their own culture as a standard to interpret and judge the new culture, leading the person to behave mistakenly.
• Differences in the system of thought. 
• Differences in the system of rewards and punishment..
• The values from both countries are not the same, and they might even be conflicting. 
• Language barrier, the inability to communicate with the locals.

You need to keep in mind that you are in a different place, with a different culture and a different language. Every single thing is new for you. The “secret” is to realize that if this is causing anxiety, you might be going through culture shock. Own it, and do your best to overcome it.

Ask for help

If you feel you can’t deal with it, do not worry. You are not the only one. Many go through this culture shock. Many have these adjustment issues. You do not have to go through it alone. Seek help!

At Estrada Vigil & Medical Group. We are a group of clinical bilingual psychologists and counselors. We have extensive experience dealing with students going through their study abroad programs. We offer in-office, online, and in-person sessions. Do not wait. Reach out to us and let us help you cope with your difficulties! Most insurances cover counseling completely for this adjustment process-