The Anxiety of Cultural Shock
Have you arrived in America alone, from another country and away from family and friends- living in a culture different from your own? Are the values, social norms and traditions different from your own beliefs and “how things should be”? Are there language difficulties- idioms which are incomprehensible?
Perhaps you have arrived with your family and there is a conflict between “old” and “new” ways. It may be essential to you and your family to continue its traditions, language etc. It also may be difficult for you to “live in both worlds”- clinging to that which has been comfortable and meaningful and adapting to that which can be both strange and necessary at the same time.
University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center describes such situations faced by their international students: “Living in a culture that is different from your own can be both an exciting adventure and a challenging process. Regardless of what country you are from, it is common for all international students to go through a period of cultural adjustment
The values, social norms, and traditions in the U.S. may be very different from beliefs in the country where you grew up. When individuals move to another culture, they naturally carry their own background and life experiences with them, and these shape how they perceive and adjust to their new environment.
For example, some of you may find American culture easy to adjust to, while others may struggle significantly. “Culture shock” is a common experience that describes the feelings of confusion, stress and disorientation that occur when entering an unfamiliar culture. Some may experience homesickness, sleep difficulties, inability to concentrate, nervousness, becoming angry over minor irritations.
It is natural to feel anxious or frustrated sometimes. The key is to remind yourself that these feelings are normal and are likely to be situational and temporary”.
Keep in mind that you do not have to struggle alone. Such universities and schools of higher learning offer on-campus counseling. We at Counseling on Demand have helped such students as well.
If you live here in America as an employee, family member or friend- or for any other reason of your own, we can help there too.
How about those who have left America for another country? Same problems??
That which is described by University of Texas applies to others of us as well- living in other countries.
If you are a traveler, expatriate, employee in another country, we can help. We have worked with many in a great many countries besides our own- with many experiencing cultural adjustments…and the anxiety which often accompanies them
This is where Counseling on Demand comes in. You need not go through this alone. With our support, you can get through these times in surprisingly short order.
We can help. We offer a variety of counseling services. We understand what you are going through. Our lead therapist, Matthew, has been there. He is aware of the various phases you are most likely going through; Honeymoon, Crisis, Recovery and Adjustment (Global Health Society):
AND
You needn’t leave your favorite/private place- at home, dorm room, work, hotel- anywhere, any city, state or country. Nor must you wait for an appointment. We are there 24/7. You can begin in 24 hours or less.
You may contact us now. Your first consultation is free.
We await your call, email or text directly. If you want a face-to-face, we can Skype you on your computer, cell phone or tablet.
