Australia Culture shock

Now, it is normal to get culture shock when you first arrive at a new country, a place where customs seem foreign and people appear different. You may feel lonely, isolated and irritated in your new environment.

But it’s always important to remind yourself of the reasons why you came here. You have done an honourable and brave thing. There will be times of awkwardness and confusion however it is always good to look at the positives.

Living in a foreign country will open up your eyes to many new perspectives, you will mature, evolve and become more confident. And most likely you will look back on these times fondly. Anyway, here are few things that might help in coping with your new environment

• Talking to people that have gone to Australia, get some advice, asked them how they dealt with their experiences.
• Talking to people in Australia from your own country can ease the feeling of loneliness and alienation.
• Bring a few mementos from home, something to keep by your side or in your house. A sense of familiarity can go along way.
• Talk to friends and family back home, there is nothing like being reassured by those close to you and speaking in your native tongue once again can be relaxing.
• Keeping busy, doing something that gives you pleasure whether it be a hobby or a sport.
• Keep a diary or a journal about your stay, often writing about your experiences and thoughts helps.
• Try and adapt as best you can, when people see that you are making the effort they will respond.
• Be optimistic and keep positive, good times are never too far away
• If you need to you can discuss things with a counsellor or an international student advisor at your school or institution
• Remember that it is a learning experience. In time you will be more confident in your new environment, situations that puzzled you earlier will now seem normal.