Culture Shock

Well, before we proceed with the nitty-gritty checklist of Things-to-Do, it's imperative to address one important aspect of this transition process from one culture to another. It's called Culture Shock.

Culture Shock is the anxiety and feelings (of surprise, disorientation, uncertainty, confusion, etc.) felt when people have to operate within a different and unknown culture such as one may encounter in a foreign country. Though not all people will have the same experience, most people will go through 4 main phases:

Common stages of adapting to culture shock

Though each person is different and will have a unique experience settling in to their new home, many people will go through four common stages of adapting to life in a new culture, often referred to as “culture shock.”

Contact an immigrant-serving organization to find out what resources are available in your community to help you cope with culture shock.

Stage 1: Happiness and fascination - Honeymoon Phase.

Just before or shortly after arriving in Canada you may:

• • Have high hopes and expect great things

  • Feel this is a very exciting time

  • Feel everything is new and interesting

  • Feel confident and that you can easily cope with problems and stress

  • Tend to focus on what is similar between Canada and the culture and country you come from

Stage 2: Disappointment, confusing feelings, frustration and irritation - Negotiation Phase.

During the first six months you may:

• • Feel happy about the challenges you have overcome

  • Feel frustrated, confused and disappointed

  • Feel very positive one day and very negative the next

  • Focus on the differences between yourself and Canadians

  • Miss your family and feel no connection to Canada

  • Have difficulty going to work or looking for work

  • Feel loneliness for your country and loved ones

  • Feel guilty about leaving family members behind

Stage 3: Gradual adjustment or recovery - Adjustment Phase.

During this stage of adjustment you may:

• • Feel more in control of your life as you gain a better understanding of Canada

  • Feel more confident in your language skills

  • Gradually get involved in the community

  • Have a better understanding of how to adapt to life in Canada

  • Have a better sense of what you need to do to get what you want in Canada

Stage 4: Acceptance and adjustment - Mastery Phase.

During this stage of adjustment you will likely:

• • Feel more comfortable in Canada

  • Have made some friends and be more involved in your new community

  • Understand better how things are done in Canada

  • Be studying, planning to return to school or working at better jobs

  • Generally feel content about having come to Canada

It's normal to experience fear of the unknown and anxiousness about all that needs to be accomplished. Therefore, it's important to take the time to familiarize yourself with what you can expect and how to go about it. Look at it as an opportunity to learn and try to enjoy the ride. And remember it's okay to make some mistakes along the way...we all do!