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There are four stages human being go through when living abroad in a new culture. This is called “culture shock”. Culture Shock affects everyone differently. Sometimes it is difficult to talk to people. Sometimes it is difficult to eat the food. If your culture includes bowing when we greet someone, you may feel uncomfortable in a culture that does not include bowing.

 

The first stage of culture shock is called the "honeymoon period". Everything is strange and exciting. We may be suffering from "jet lag" but we are thrilled to be in a new country or city, seeing new sights, hearing new sounds and language, eating new kinds of food. It makes you feel like you are in a great adventure. 

 

The next stage may be more challenging. After settling down in your new city, buying groceries, doing laundry, or living with a homestay family, you can become very tired and begin to miss your culture, your family or your friends.  This is called “anger and rejection stage”. Many people start to eat unhealthy foods, start smoking or develop some bad habits.  People get depressed, get sick and sometimes they decide to go back home. Social Media contact with their home country, their friends and family make it even more difficult to get out of this stage. Often times, people decide to spend time with only people from their own country who understand speak their own language.

 

The third stage of culture shock is called the "adjustment stage". You start to realize that living abroad is ok. You can handle it. Your sense of humour usually becomes stronger. You are becoming stronger. You are better at taking care of yourself. You are learning to do thing on your own. It is not easy, but you can survive.

 

The final stage is called “Independence". You may have issues and problems such as language or food but you have the ability to solve these problems. They are small frustrations. You accept both cultures - your new culture and your home culture. Also, if a new person arrives from your country, you have the experience and confidence to help them get through the culture shock that they are feeling. 

 

Culture Shock is a challenge for every traveller. The good news is that the more you travel, the less culture shock you get! So when living abroad try to make new friends, learn the language and get involved with a hobby. These are the best ways to overcome Culture Shock.