Culture shock

Moving away from home and adjusting to a new culture can be difficult. Feeling anxious or worried about coping is part of settling in. This is culture shock.

Common signs

  • Anxious and lonely
  • Sad, missing family and friends
  • Avoiding people
  • Unable to eat
  • Problems sleeping
  • Tired, not enough energy
  • Disorganised, no routine
  • Angry and confused

Stages of culture shock

 

Excitement When you first arrive, you are excited and interested in discovering new things
Confusion Then you start to focus on the differences and feel confused, homesick, frustrated or depressed. You avoid spending time with people
Resentment You then start to resent the different culture and perhaps feel hostile, defensive or vulnerable
Coping Eventually, you feel more relaxed and less dependent on others. You may start to appreciate the new culture
Belonging Finally, you feel a sense of belonging and confidence. You enjoy both your new and home cultures

How to cope

  • Remember that your reactions are normal
  • Stay in contact with your family and friends
  • Talk to international students for support
  • Find students from your culture who have adjusted well
  • Make friends with Australian students who can help you learn about their culture
  • Join a student or community group
  • Join a study group
  • Contact your department to find a tutor
  • Talk to your advisers and lecturers about problems studying

Monash resources