Culture shock is an emotional and psychological reaction that people experience when they are immersed in a foreign culture. This condition often occurs when someone lives for an extended period of time in a country whose culture differs significantly from their own. Culture shock often involves several phases, which can vary but typically include

Honeymoon phase: in the beginning, there is often euphoria and enthusiasm about the new environment and culture. Everything seems exciting and interesting.

Crisis or frustration phase: The initial euphoria wears off and the differences in culture begin to bother you. You often feel frustrated, overwhelmed and disoriented. Misunderstandings and communication problems can occur and you miss your familiar surroundings and way of life.

Adaptation phase: You gradually start to get used to the new culture. You develop a better understanding of the cultural norms and values and find ways of dealing with the differences.

Second adaptation phase: You have learned to accept and appreciate the new culture and have found a way to navigate between your own and the foreign culture. A sense of belonging and security in the new environment develops.

The intensity and duration of culture shock can vary greatly, depending on individual factors such as personal flexibility, previous experience abroad, differences between cultures and local support mechanisms.

Culture shock is a normal and often unavoidable phenomenon that is part of the process of adapting to a new cultural environment. With time and active efforts to integrate, you can overcome this phase and gain positive experiences in the new culture.

What can I do if I experience culture shock?

If you are experiencing culture shock, there are several strategies that can help you to overcome this phase and adapt better to the new environment:

Educate yourself: learn as much as you can about the new culture. Read books, watch movies or talk to our local coordinators to better understand the cultural norms and values.

Be patient: Accept that it takes time to get used to a new culture. Don't expect to feel at home straight away.

Establish a routine: Try to establish a certain routine in your everyday life. This can give you a sense of stability and normality.

Communicate: Talk to others about your feelings and experiences. This can be with friends, family or other SGA interns and volunteers who are going through or have gone through similar experiences.

Find local friends: Actively seek contact with locals. They can help you to better understand the culture and integrate more quickly.

Self-care: Take care of your physical and mental health. Eat a healthy diet, exercise and make sure you get enough sleep. Relaxation exercises such as meditation or yoga can also be helpful.

Develop flexibility: Be open and flexible to new situations and challenges. Try not to see differences as negative, but as an opportunity to learn something new.

Pursue hobbies and interests: Find activities and hobbies that you enjoy and that you can also do in the new environment. This can help you to distract yourself and feel more positive.

Learn the language: If you do not yet speak the language of the new country, try to acquire at least a basic knowledge. This will make communication easier and help you to find your way around.

In any case, always take advantage of our internal meetings on site, so you get to know other people and also the local coordinators and feel less alone.

By applying these strategies, you will be able to cope better with the culture shock and feel more comfortable in your new environment.

Do you have any further questions? Contact us, we will be happy to help you every step of the way. Your SGA team