| The term "culture shock" originated in the 1950s. | | | | "home country". A "reverse culture-shock" is |
| Basically it describes the physical and emotional | | | | often experienced. Re-adjusting to the old culture |
| discomforts that occur when someone moves | | | | is as hard as, and may be even more difficult |
| from one cultural environment to another. There | | | | than the original move. |
| are several stages to culture shock. | | | | You can experience: |
| In the holiday stage, which is the period just | | | | Emotional trauma |
| before and just after the move everything is | | | | Adjustment problems |
| new and exciting. One feels very energetic, | | | | Mental isolation |
| enthusiastic and hopeful about everything in life. | | | | Acceptance and integration difficulties |
| This is followed by the deterioration/ falling apart | | | | Sense of separation |
| stage during which there may be great feelings of | | | | These are all quite normal for a period of time. |
| dissatisfaction. Things are difficult and one's | | | | The tips below may seem easy and |
| excitement turns to distress. One goes through | | | | oversimplified, but they work in overcoming |
| communication difficulties, impatience, anger, grief, | | | | culture shock. If it persists, however, seek |
| and a feeling of inexperience. There is more hope | | | | professional help: |
| during the adjustment stage. This is when you | | | | TIPS: |
| can see some direction, you are able to laugh at | | | | Don't expect yourself, others or situations to be |
| yourselves again and life begins to feel a bit more | | | | perfect. |
| balanced. | | | | Have an open mind. |
| During the orientation stage there is an increasing | | | | Be active and participate. |
| feeling confidence and a sense of belonging. One | | | | Speak to support groups and/or individuals. |
| starts to make connections within the new | | | | Stay in touch with family and friends. |
| culture, and starts to enjoy many aspects of | | | | Use Expat Forums on line - they are great |
| many of the customs and cultural conventions. It | | | | "Culture is the process by which a person |
| becomes easier to adopt these practices and | | | | becomes all that they were created capable of |
| make them part of your life and daily routine. | | | | being. |
| Lastly, repatriation is when one returns to the | | | | |