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What is culture shock? Tips to assist you adjust to a new culture

Culture shock is the expected confrontation with the unfamiliar.

When you arrive in a new country, you may experience a wide variety of feelings and reactions as you adapt to the new environment and culture. Some people may feel confused, nervous, irritable, uncertain or dependent on others. For other people, the period of time immediately after their arrival is filled with excitement and adventure - however after this wears off the challenge of adjusting to life and study in a new culture can be exhausting. This may lead to feelings of frustration and anxiety. If you do experience these things, then you are probably experiencing what is called culture shock.

Coming to Australia from another country exposes you to many new things which may include such things as: the buildings look different and so does the landscape, the food is not what you are used to and the people look, speak and act differently from the people at home. You may not be able to speak with other people as confidently. If you feel lonely, you may miss your family and friends more than you expected. All these feelings and emotions may mean lead you to start questioning your decision to come to Australia. Was it the right decision?

Tips to assist you adjust to a new culture

Coping with culture shock requires a special effort, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. During the first weeks and months in a new country, it is common to experience some degree of culture shock - it is a normal response to a drastic change in your physical, social and cultural environment. The following comments will help you understand what you may be experiencing and suggest some ways of coping more effectively with your new situation. Below are some tips that may assist you in your transition to a new culture:

• Think positively - be willing to learn, be open minded and light hearted

• Listen, watch, observe and reflect. Examine your expectations and preconceived stereotypes

• Stay in touch with family and friends and keep up with events at home

• Keep a diary of your experiences

• Allow yourself sufficient time to adjust 

• Do some familiar activities, especially the things you are good at 

• Get involved in an social and recreational activities that will help you to meet people and to make new friends

• Introduce yourself to other people and students in your courses - keep in contact with the people you meet 

• Remember what you would have done at home to relax and do something similar

• Use English language as much as possible; read the local newspaper and watch television, listen to the radio and try to speak English as much as you can: the more you use the language the more you will improve

• Take advantage of the services and orientations offered by UQ

• Set small goals that you can achieve every day 

• Don't be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure what to do or what is expected of you

• Get plenty of exercise, eat well, and drink plenty of water

• Keep your sense of humor and believe in yourself!

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