Reverse Culture Shock: The Struggles of Readjusting to Your Native Culture

Introduction

Many people assume that the only type of culture shock one can face is when they move to a new country with a vastly different culture. However, there is another kind of culture shock that can affect one’s well-being just as much: reverse culture shock. This is the emotional and psychological impact that people experience when returning to their native culture after spending a long time away. In this article, we will explore what reverse culture shock is, its symptoms, and how to deal with it.

What is Reverse Culture Shock?

Reverse culture shock, also known as re-entry shock, is the emotional and psychological challenge of adjusting to one’s original culture after living abroad for a significant period of time. It happens when a person experiences unexpected or unfamiliar aspects of their own culture that they had previously taken for granted or forgotten.

The Symptoms of Reverse Culture Shock

Reverse culture shock can affect people in various ways. Some common signs and symptoms of reverse culture shock include:

Feelings of isolation or withdrawal
Difficulty readjusting to daily routines
Experiencing boredom and restlessness
Feeling nostalgic about the adopted culture
Increased sensitivity to cultural differences
Disillusionment and disappointment with one’s original culture
Difficulty communicating with friends and family

How to Deal with Reverse Culture Shock

Here are some ways to cope with reverse culture shock:

Remember Why You Left

It is helpful to recall why you left home in the first place, whether it was for work, study, or adventure. Reminding yourself of the experiences you gained and the new perspectives that you developed during your time abroad can help you stay positive.

Stay Open-Minded

Try to approach your home culture with an open and curious mindset. Being judgmental towards differences and changes can make it even harder to adjust. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Reconnect with Your Friends and Family

It is essential to take adequate time to connect with your loved ones. Talking about your experiences with them and listening to theirs can help them understand your adjusted worldview and help you get re-acquainted with your culture.

Keep Up Your Hobbies and Habits

Sticking to established routines and continuing with favourite hobbies can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort. Doing the things that you love and help drive home makes it easier for you to adjust.

Give Yourself Time

Reverse culture shock does not go away overnight, so be patient with yourself. It may take a few months to fully adjust to your old surroundings, but persistence is the key.

Conclusion

Reverse culture shock can be a challenging experience. It’s crucial to acknowledge these symptoms and reach out for support when things get tough. The key is to have patience and empathy for yourself and understand that the culture shock is manageable with time and effort. Take the steps mentioned in this article to ease your way back into your native culture. Remember that it is okay to struggle, and it’s perfectly normal to feel disoriented when adapting to an old environment. The most important thing is to stay positive, enjoy the moments with your loved ones, and make the best of your return to your roots.
the culture shock is the period of adjustment when someone moves back to his country
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