Reverse culture shock is a psychological and emotional phenomenon experienced by individuals when they return to their home country or culture after an extended period of time living abroad. Returning to one’s home country can be a highly anticipated and exciting event. So, where does the shock come from?

Individuals who have immersed themselves in a different culture, especially for a longer period of time, often develop new perspectives, values, and ways of life, which may clash with the expectations and norms of their home culture. This can lead to a sense of disorientation, confusion, and even a feeling of not belonging.
Experiencing reverse culture shock can be a challenging and disorienting process; however, with some preparation and coping strategies, you can make the transition smoother. Here are some tips that worked for me:

1. Educate yourself about your home country: Keep up-to-date with current events, cultural changes, and social dynamics in your home country. This knowledge will help you understand any changes that may have occurred during your absence and assist in adjusting to the new environment.

2. Stay connected with your international friends: Maintain communication with the friends you made while abroad. They can understand and relate to your experiences better than most, and sharing your feelings with them can be cathartic.

3. Maintain some aspects of your international lifestyle: Incorporate elements of your international lifestyle into your daily routine at home. This could include cooking international cuisine, practicing language skills, or engaging in cultural activities. By maintaining these aspects, you can keep your international experiences alive and ease the transition.

4. Reflect on your experiences abroad: Take some time to reflect on your time abroad, the cultural differences you encountered, and the personal growth you experienced. This reflection can help you appreciate your international experiences and give you a broader perspective when facing challenges at home.

5. Share your experiences: Find opportunities to share your international experiences with others who are interested. This could be through presentations, writing a blog, or participating in cultural exchange programs. Sharing your experiences can help you process them and also contribute to intercultural understanding.

6. Be patient with yourself: Give yourself time to readjust. Recognize that it may take a while to feel fully settled and comfortable in your home country again. Allow yourself to adapt at your own pace and be patient with the process.

Remember, reverse culture shock is a temporary phase, and with time and self-care, it will gradually go away. It has been taking time for me, but I have started enjoying the journey and realized that observing my own home country through a different cultural lens can also be fun!

Embrace the opportunity to integrate your international experiences into your life and continue to grow from them.

I am curious to hear about your tips and experiences with reverse culture shock. Please let me know what has worked for you.