Reverse Culture Shock

Going abroad for Erasmus, exchange programmes, internships or to work, is always a great experience. You learn new things, improve a foreign language, meet lots of people and adapt to a new way of living. However, coming back home may not be so easy. What does it feel like after an experience abroad?

It has become common to talk about reverse culture shock after spending some time abroad. Reverse culture shock is the psychological condition of inadequacy, discomfort, homesickness, sadness and sometimes even depression that one feels after returning from a foreign country. This feeling of unease is particularly felt by those who have had a good time abroad and, for this reason, they tend to be nostalgic. 

What are the factors that contribute to generating reverse culture shock?

An international experience is certainly very impacting, and many times changes your way of thinking or even your approach to life. Seeing other realities and being immersed in different cultural contexts, changes what you are. Most of the time, you only realise this change when you go back to your home country, and this might cause a shock. Places you used to consider familiar are now no longer familiar and the same people you used to hang out with may not accept your change positively.

Furthermore, it must be taken into account that you are not the only ones who have changed. During your absence, your friends and relatives have become accustomed to the idea of not having you around and now their way of thinking may be very different from yours. 

Usually, the culture shock is stronger the longer the stay abroad. Moreover, if the differences between the country of departure and the destination country are very pronounced, then the reverse culture shock will also have a greater impact. A sudden or unexpected return may also play a role in the development of this condition.

How to cope with reverse culture shock?

There is no definite rule for dealing with reverse culture shock. What is important to know is that it is normal, after returning home, to feel depressed or sad. You should not be afraid to deal with these feelings, but rather accept them and move on. Going abroad is always a valuable experience so don't miss out on this opportunity, despite the possibility of culture shock on your return!