Culture Shock

Culture shock is the natural reaction to a series of transitions that occur when we are uprooted from our cultural environment and transplanted into a new situation where the language, gestures, customs, signs and symbols that have previously helped us to make sense of our surroundings suddenly have no meaning or have new meanings. Most of all, we have lost our social supports (family, friends, classmates, coworkers) and we must begin again in a place where things are unpredictable. While the words “culture shock” imply something immediate, the onset is usually gradual and cumulative. Everyone experiences culture shock differently.

Suggestions For A Smooth Transition

• Remind yourself that everything you're feeling is perfectly normal
• Be patient and give yourself the time to work through this process
• Keep in touch with your friends and family back home via email, text, or telephone
• Surround yourself with familiar items, such as photos or ornaments
• Maintain contact with your ethnic group as well as local students
• Take good care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, learn relaxation and stress reduction techniques 
• Look for activities that will put you in contact with other students who share your interests 
• Maintain your self-confidence; follow your ambitions and continue your plans for the future 
• Find out what campus services offer help for international students dealing with culture shock 
• Maintain a sense of humor. Be able to laugh at yourself and at the predicaments you get into 
• Resist the temptation to constantly disparage the host country. Begin to consciously look for logical reasons for anything in the U.S. that seems strange, confusing, or threatening. There are reasons why Americans do things differently than people do in your country
• Talk to someone about your experiences. Do not be afraid to talk to family, friends, members of your host department, a trained counselor or the staff at the ISSS office, especially if you are thinking of leaving the U.S.

Medical Facilities & Emergencies

UO Health Services

The UO provides primary care, mental health services and counseling, and other clinical services for all UO students, staff, and faculty. Their website also contains resources on health insurance, urgent care and hospital facilities in the area, and COVID-19 testing.

Health Services