Culture Shock vs Reverse Culture Shock: How to Deal with the Transition

Culture shock is a difficult but normal part of adjusting to a new culture. By learning about the signs and symptoms, you can be better prepared to deal with them. With time and patience, you will be able to adjust to the new culture and feel more at home. On the other hand, reverse culture shock is when someone who was acclimated to a culture returns to their home culture and experiences culture shock there. This can be just as, if not, more difficult than culture shock in a new culture. By being aware of the signs and symptoms, you can be better prepared to deal with them. With time and patience, you will be able to adjust to the change and feel more at home.

My First Reverse Culture Shock Experience

The first time I experienced reverse culture shock was when I returned home after spending just under three months in Africa. During my time volunteering in Malawi, we didnt have consistent power, hot water or a refrigerator. There was rarely meat in our diet and we bought produce every other day. There arent many street lights in the small town so I adjusted to night time equating to absolute darkness on cloudy nights with moonlight being the only source of light on a clear night. Returning home to the loud noises of a city, ceaseless light and an abundance of food was overwhelming. I remember tearing up looking at the refrigerator because I couldnt decide what to eat. The biggest hurdle was the language. When you dont understand the language around you, your brain sees it as white noise. Returning to a language I understood meant my brain was overloaded with side conversations. I had a lingering headache from all of the extra input.

Over time my brain adjusted. To ease the transition I spent the first couple of days in the house. I started with small group interactions with family members before diving back into society. This may seem extreme but for me it was necessary. There’s no wrong way to reintroduce yourself to your culture. Everyone’s experience is different and listening to your instincts and needs trumps anyone else.

What is Culture Shock?

Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation that can occur when you move from one culture to another, or when you spend a long time in a culture that is different from your own. This can include confusion, sadness, homesickness and even anger.

It is normal to feel a certain degree of culture shock when you first arrive in a new country, or when you are exposed to a new culture. It is important to remember that culture shock is normal and will subside over time.

What are some signs of culture shock?

Some signs of culture shock include feeling homesick, confused, isolated, and even angry. You may also feel like you are not yourself, or that you are not able to communicate effectively. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to remember that they are normal and that there are ways to cope with them.

What can you do to deal with culture shock?

There are several things you can do to cope with culture shock.

Try to learn about the new culture before you go. This can help you be prepared for some of the differences. Look for stark differences and imagine how you would deal with those situations.
Try to keep an open mind. Remember that everyone experiences culture shock to some degree and that it is normal to feel disoriented in a new culture.
Be patient with yourself. It may take some time to adjust to the new culture.
Stay positive. Focus on the things you like about the new culture, and try to find humor in the situations that are causing you stress.
Stay connected to your home culture. Keeping in touch with friends and family can help you feel more connected to your home culture and may help you adjust to the new culture more quickly.
Seek out support. There are often support groups available to help people who are experiencing culture shock. Talking to someone who understands what you are going through can be very helpful.

What is Reverse Culture Shock?

Reverse culture shock occurs when someone who was in a different culture has difficulties adjusting to their home culture. This can happen when you return home after living in a different country, or even if you have just been away from home for a long period of time. Reverse culture shock can be more difficult because home no longer feels like home or feels different than what you remember. If you are experiencing reverse culture shock, it is important to remember that it is normal and that there are ways to cope with it.

What are Some Signs of Reverse Culture Shock?

Signs of reverse culture shock can include feeling out of place, feeling like you no longer fit in, and feeling homesick for the place you were just in. You may also find yourself missing the things that you took for granted in the other culture, such as the food or the weather. You may find yourself distancing from past friends or feeling disconnected during conversations with loved ones.

How to Deal with Reverse Culture Shock?

There are several things you can do to cope with reverse culture shock.

Try to be patient with yourself. It may take some time to adjust to being back in your home culture. Taking time to re-center your mind daily can be a great first step to adjusting to your home life.
Keep an open mind. Remember that everyone experiences reverse culture shock to some degree and that it is normal to feel disoriented when you return to your home culture.
Stay positive. Focus on the things you like about your home culture such as things you missed or realized you took for granted while you were gone.
Seek out support. There are often support groups available to help people who are experiencing reverse culture shock. Talking to someone who understands what you are going through can be very helpful.

Conclusion

Both culture shock and reverse culture shock can be stressful and emotionally draining times in your life. Remind yourself that this will pass. You may need to make adjustments to your lifestyle to assist with the transition. Take your time and give yourself grace. Embracing change is something all humans struggle with. Be proud of yourself for taking the chance, many never do.