Culture Re-shock: Adjusting to Change over the Christmas Break
Adjusting to change usually comes with challenges. It can feel disruptive and unsettling, which can impact our mental and physical health.
Whether you are arriving in the UK for the first time, remaining in the UK during the winter break, visiting home after studying in the UK for the last few months, or returning to the UK after visiting home, each requires adjusting to differences. While adjusting to a change in environment, we may go through different feelings and emotions.
- Honeymoon
When you first arrive in a different culture or place, differences are intriguing, and you may feel excited. At this stage you are still protected by the close memory of your home culture.
2. Distress
A little later, differences may make you feel confused or isolated; as usual familiar supports may not be immediately available.
3. Reintegration
Next you may reject the differences you encounter. You may feel angry or frustrated. At this stage you may be conscious mainly of how much you dislike it compared to what you are used to. Don’t worry, as this is quite a healthy reaction. You are reconnecting with what you value about yourself and your life.
4. Autonomy
Differences and similarities are accepted. You may feel relaxed and more confident as you become more familiar with situations and feel able to cope with new situations based on your growing experience.
5. Independence
Differences and similarities are valued and important. You may feel full of potential and able to trust yourself in all kinds of situations. Most situations become enjoyable, and you can make choices based on your preferences and values.
Many people go through different phases of the process of adjustment several times, so parts may repeat themselves. For instance, at significant times such as important family dates or festivals you may feel distressed or lonely, while at other times you feel quite settled.
Whatever your plans are during the Christmas break, ensure you look after your mental health, especially upon your return to the UK. Engage in activities that make you happy, connect with your loved ones, seek help when you need it, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times — it’s all part of the journey, and in time, you will find your footing in this new culture.
If you are staying in the UK during the winter break and need support, please use the helplines below:
- Samaritans: 116 123 — This is a crisis listening service open 24 hours per day, they are there to listen to you if you feel like you need to speak with someone about your mental health
- Connect helpline: 0808 800 1212 — Emotional support and information in Leeds every night of the year 6pm — 2am
- SHOUT: Text SHOUT to 85258 — Text service for mental health concerns
- CALM (Campaign against living miserably): 0800 585858 — Helpline and webchat for low mood, open 5pm — midnight
If you are in your home country during the winter break and need support with your mental health, you can find helplines below:
For further information about the winter break, see our blog here.
