en

Survival Guide

Survival Guide

The information below comes from Nicolaus Copernicus University’s Website. http://www.umk.pl/en/cooperation/guide/
CULTURE SHOCK
Many people travelling go through an initial period of euphoria and excitement, overwhelmed by the thrill of being in a totally new and unusual environment. When this initial feeling of ‘adventure’ disappears, they suddenly no longer feel comfortable. Minor problems seem major crises, and they find themselves growing depressed. If this happens to you, as it is likely to, you will feel like the outsider. You may feel an anxiety, a kind of psychological disorientation.

What does it mean?

You are experiencing what people refer to as ‘culture shock’. It is important to understand that this reaction is entirely normal and it will pass! As long as you know it in advance, you can prepare yourself psychologically to accept the temporary discomfort and turn it into an advantage by learning from it. Remember that you are not the only one experiencing occasional frustration, irritability, and depression, etc.