Culture Shock TRIVIA

[neilski "mr.pogi"]

The symptoms of cultural shock can appear at different times.
Although, one can experience real pain from culture shock; it is
also an opportunity for redefining one's life objectives. It is a
great opportunity for leaning and acquiring new perspectives.

Culture shock can make one develop a better understanding
of oneself and stimulate personal creativity.

Symptoms:

Sadness, loneliness, melancholy
Preoccupation with health
Aches, pains, and allergies
Insomnia, desire to sleep too much or too little
Changes in temperament, depression, feeling vulnerable, feeling powerless
Anger, irritability, resentment, unwillingness to interact with others
Identifying with the old culture or idealizing the old country
Loss of identity
Trying too hard to absorb everything in the new culture or country
Unable to solve simple problems
Lack of confidence
Feelings of inadequacy or insecurity
Developing stereotypes about the new culture
Developing obsessions such as over-cleanliness
Longing for family
Feelings of being lost, overlooked, exploited or abused

How to Fight Culture Shock

The majority of individuals and families that immigrate from
other countries have the ability to positively confront the
obstacles of a new environment. Some ways to combat
stress produced by culture shock are:
 
Develop a hobby

Don't forget the good things you already have!

Remember, there are always resources that you can use

Be patient, the act of immigrating is a process of adaptation
to new situations.  It is going to take time.

Learn to be constructive. If you encounter an unfavorable
environment, don't put yourself in that position again.

Be easy on yourself.

Don't try too hard. Learn to include a regular form of
physical activity in your routine. This will help combat the
sadness and loneliness in a constructive manner.
Exercise, swim, take an aerobics class, etc.

Relaxation and meditation are proven to be very positive
for people who are passing through periods of stress
Maintain contact with your ethnic group. This will give
you a feeling of belonging and you will reduce your
feelings of loneliness and alienation.
 
Maintain contact with the new culture. Learn the language.
Volunteer in community activities that allow you to practice
the language that you are learning. This will help you feel
less stress about language and useful at the same time.

Allow yourself to feel sad about the things that you have
left behind: your family, your friends,etc.
Recognize the sorrow of leaving your old country. 
Accept the new country.  Focus your power on getting
through the transition.
Pay attention to relationships with your family and at work.
They will serve as support for you in difficult times.

Establish simple goals and evaluate your progress.

Find ways to live with the things that don't satisfy you 100%.
Maintain confidence in yourself. Follow your ambitions and
continue your plans for the future.