subject: How To Handle Reverse Culture Shock [print this page] Living overseas is a monumental time in your life. You're in a new place, meeting new people, and learning about a culture that's markedly different from America. Your life abroad may have felt much more exciting and attractive than life at home. You may be feeling sad and annoyed with the lifestyle in America.
It's probably not necessary to get a prescription for ani-depressants just yet, you're probably just dealing with reverse culture shock.
Reverse culture shock affects many people who travel, work, or study out of the country. Although it may seem hard to make it through, there are many easy ways to handle your emotions.
Stay Connected
Your acquaintances weren't out of the country with you, so they most likely aren't as excited to talk about fine European wine every five minutes. Keep in contact and chat with the people you met out of the country via Skype and Facebook. The Internet connects people from all over the world so you can keep contact with and maybe even plan another visit for next year.
Share your Experiences
While your friends from home might get tired of hearing your stories from abroad, there are many programs where you can share your travel adventures with people who want to listen to them.
Contact your study abroad program or school to inquire if they have student representatives on campus. Many groups and Universities need people to host and attend study abroad fairs or work in a study abroad office. Both of these are great ways not only help others who want to travel, but tell all the minute details of life overseas.
Accept the Differences
Although you may feel sad about your seemingly boring life in the United States, it's best to search for the positive things about home. There are many awesome things about life in the US and once you accept those positives as well as your new and improved self, life will be a breeze!
