Culture show makes you aware of the differences you have compared to other people’s values, morals, beliefs, and traditions. These differences may lead to internal conflict as you try to adapt to them. You may feel a range of emotions including anxiety, confusion, homesickness, anger, sadness, frustration, and sometimes even depression.
You might say something like “I know that you seem to be having a great time here in Italy but I’m really struggling with how different it is from home. How did you manage to acclimate so well?”
Plan to call your family and friends at a minimum of every few days. If phone access is restricted where you are, try email or send handwritten letters.
You might ask for particular snacks or hygiene products that you like that you cannot find in your current location.
Though you should try to have many new experiences, try to keep some familiarity in your daily schedule.
For instance, perhaps you were accepted into a University that is located in a predominantly Native American community and you were not aware of that beforehand. Research the local tribe as well as the community’s history. You will likely develop a greater appreciation because of it.
Keep your phone on you so that you can find your way home should you get lost.
Try to have conversations with local speakers. Watch television shows or movies in the language to learn it more readily.
For instance, perhaps there is a local book club who is scheduled to read a book that you are interested in. Join this club and try it out for a while.
An example would be travelling to India and getting henna tattoos without understanding the deeper meaning of the ink, which is traditionally used in wedding ceremonies.
For instance, in certain cultures, if you are in someone’s home, it is considered rude to turn down food. Find out the norms in your area and practice them.
For instance, perhaps the city you are in is gorgeous. You might also have met a really nice friend while you have been there.
Perhaps you want to cook your family’s favorite meal for your new friends.
Feeling homesick and lonely despite your efforts to cope with these feelings. Feeling sad, hopeless, helpless, and anxious a large portion of the time. Having frequent crying spells for no apparent reason. Noticing marked changes in your normal sleeping or eating behaviors, such as sleeping all day or having trouble sleeping or eating drastically more than is normal for you. Having an increase in minor illnesses such as flu, cold, digestive problems, and/or headaches/migraines. Increased irritability or agitation, or feeling tense or on edge. Feeling depressed. Having difficulty concentrating, such as in school or at work. Feeling like you’re out of control in many areas of your life.
