Develop a Support System
The biggest way to combat culture shock is to have a support system that you can reach out to when you start to feel homesick. This support system can include friends and family that are at home, but you also need to establish relationships closer to where you are now. Try to connect to other international and local students. Being able to sit down with someone on a daily basis can help you to find your equilibrium. The biggest problem with cultural shock is that sometimes you don’t feel like yourself anymore and can start to get lost in the shuffle. Remember that other students will also be sure to feel out of place, and that you can help lift others and be supported in turn.
Create Familiar Atmospheres
Surrounding yourself with familiar items helps to maintain your self-image and comfort. For example, you could read a favorite book or play music from your home country. You could even share parts of your home with others; installing speakers in your room will let you share music with roommates if they’re interested, and hanging posters on the wall can spark conversations. This affords you the opportunity to share your culture with those around you. Creating a sense of home away from home will enable you to combat some of your anxiety.
Keep a Routine
A routine will help you be able to keep up with school even when stressed. It also serves to get you out and interacting with others, which is good for your mental health. As a part of your routine, you should incorporate exercise. A healthy body is a major part of maintaining balance in your life. In order to deal with some of the cultural shock, consider joining an activity like a sport or game group on a regular basis. This can help you to make new friends that can become a part of your support system.
There will likely be differences between your culture and your school’s culture. Getting prepared will assist you in making the transition. Being prepared on a mental level is one of the best ways to overcome your cultural shock. Absorb what’s going on around you and remember to reserve judgment. Every culture is unique in its own way. This is part of the reason you wanted to study abroad and expand your horizons.
Coping with cultural shock doesn’t need to hold you back in your studies. Employ these techniques to help you integrate without experiencing the negative side effects.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChapla